TWO soldiers and four rebels were killed in an encounter Sunday, December 3, in Barangay Ned, Lake Sebu, SouthCotabato.
The troops also recovered several war materials.
In a press statement issue by the 1002nd Infantry Brigade, the troops belonging to 27th Infantry Battalion (IB) encountered an undetermined number of armed NPA rebels, believed to be members of Platoon Arabo Guerilla Front (GF) 73 FSMR in Lake Sebu, which resulted to the fatalities.
The two killed-in-action (KIA) were identified as Private First Class (PFC) Jovanie P. Tagactac and PFC Max Jay Lord Fernando.
The troops were there to respond and verify reports from the community on the presence of armed men in their area but upon reaching the location, they encountered the lawless armed group.
The firefight lasted for an hour, resulting to the killing of four NPA rebels as well as the recovery of one carbine, two homemade shot guns, one locally made 9mm machine pistol.
Aside from the fatalities, the government forces also suffered three wounded troops.
Colonel Roberto Ancan, 1002nd Brigade Commander said they will continue to hunt the insurgents in adherence to the rule of law.
"The NPA rebels, who are terrorizing our country, shall be dealt with according to the provisions of the Law," Ancan said.
Meanwhile, 27th IB commander Lieutenant Benjamin Leander urged rebels in the hinterland and those who are wounded to lay down their arms and avail of government services.
"For those wounded terrorists and for some others who are still hiding right now, it is high time for you to peacefully surrender to the folds of law and avail the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) of the Local Government," Leander said.
He added that the military has intensified its security operations to thwart the atrocities and threats posed by the NPA.