SOLDIERS belonging to the Philippine Army's 10th Infantry Division launched yesterday a pursuit operation against suspected members of the New People's Army whom they encountered in Montevista, Compostela Valley on April 30.
Captain Ernest Carolina, spokesperson for the 10th Infantry Division, said troops of the 25th Infantry Battalion encountered at least 20 members of the NPA's Guerilla Front 33 at So. New Tibungco in Barangay San Jose in Montevista around 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, which leaves three still unidentified rebels dead.
Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) commander L/General Ricardo Rainier Cruz III directed its troops under the 10th Infantry Division to secure the communities from the communist movement. He said that their mandate is to protect the people from harm.
Carolina earlier said the troops were conducting its security patrol following the reports on NPA encampment in the area but it was reportedly abandoned by the rebels. He added that the troops recovered a .9mm pistol, .38 pistol, two improvised landmines, three backpacks, and documents at the encounter site.
Lieutenant Colonel Elmer Aterrado, commander of the 25th Infantry Battalion, said the NPA is regularly staying in the area to replenish their supplies and extort money from establishments. He added that they used civilians to run errands for them like buying groceries and they also laid landmines along the roads.
"We are ready to perform necessary and appropriate move against the NPA to ensure the safety and security of the civilians. But we are not closing our doors for those who would renounce armed struggle and return to the folds of the law," Aterrado said.
"They can avail of the government's Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) and AFP's Gun For Peace Program. It will provide them the opportunity to return back to their families and communities, and together we shall solve our problems in a peaceful way," he added.
The firefight lasted for 10 minutes before the NPA reportedly hastily withdrew, leaving behind their members killed in the encounter. The three fatalities were brought to Lord Anthony Funeral Homes.