TACLOBAN CITY – Government troops seized three anti-personnel mines (APMs) and a firearm following a brief encounter with suspected communist rebels in Jaro, Leyte.
On Monday, December 30, troops from the 93rd Infantry Battalion based in Kananga, engaged in a five-minute firefight with members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) in the hinterlands of Barangay Canhandugan, Jaro.
Recovered after the clash were one .45-caliber pistol, three APMs, ammunition, and other war materials.
A soldier sustained a minor injury on his chest during the encounter and was promptly provided medical attention.
The intensified security operations conducted by government troops thwarted potential violent activities in the area, while also strengthening measures to protect civilians from possible attacks by rebel members.
Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir, commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade, commended the swift action of the soldiers and the vital role played by the community in ensuring the operation’s success.
“The NPA once again failed in their terroristic activities due to the invaluable assistance of the populace, who alerted our soldiers about the presence of suspicious individuals in their community,” Vestuir said in a statement.
Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio, the commanding general of the 8th Infantry Division, praised the troops for their dedication to safeguarding the public despite the holiday season. He also expressed his gratitude to local residents for their support in the fight for lasting peace.
“With the cooperation of the civilian sector, achievements like this are made possible. Let us continue working together to eliminate this threat and ensure the safety of our communities,” he said in a separate statement.
The Philippine Army called on remaining rebel members to surrender and take advantage of the government’s amnesty program, which offers opportunities for reintegration and a chance to live peaceful lives with their families.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
