One soldier and six members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed in a clash in the Municipality of Balayan, Batangas on Sunday, Dec. 17, according to the Department of National Defense (DND).

In an official statement, DND Secretary Gilbert ‘Gibo’ Teodoro extended his sympathies to the family of the slain soldier, whose name cannot be revealed yet.

He also reported that three other soldiers sustained injuries.

"We are ensuring that our wounded soldiers will receive the best medical care, and provide all the necessary assistance to the family of our slain soldier during this difficult time," Teodoro said.

The DND Secretary expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the army forces for their dedication to protect the country.

BASAHIN: Pahayag ni DND Sec. Gibo Teodoro sa nangyaring sagupaan sa pagitan ng mga miyembro ng New People’s Army at mga sundalo mula sa 59th Infantry "Protector" Battalion ng Philippine Army, Philippine Navy, at Philippine Air Force sa Batangas. | via RH 52 Edniel Parrosa pic.twitter.com/wc9FBlKfRo

— DZRH NEWS (@dzrhnews) December 17, 2023

Six NPA members also died during the clash, he mentioned.

"[Ang] nasabing engkwentro na nagresulta sa pagkamatay ng anim (6) na miyembro ng NPA, at pagkalap ng iba't ibang armas at mga subersibong dokumento,” Teodoro said.

He vowed that the Armed Forces of the Philippines will not cease operations against terrorist groups that he said are causing harm in the country.