Army recovers firearms after an encounter with NPAs

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 4): Army recovers firearms after an encounter with NPAs

The 87th Infantry (Hinirang) Battalion troops under Lt Col Cerilo C Balaoro recovered an M 16 rifle, one rifle grenade, two long magazines with 58 live ammunition, 21 live ammunition for M1 Garand rifle, and NPA subversive documents.firearms. This, after an encounter with rebels at a NPA camp near Barangay Rizal, Basey, Samar recently.

Cpt Tuguinay L Agoy led the military troops in a 45-minute gun battle against the local NPA insurgents. There was no reported casualty on the government side, according to information released by Division Public Affairs Officer (DPAO) Capt Gene Orense.

“The armed encounter is a result of the successive security operations coupled with "Bayanihan" activities of 87th IB in the area of Samar,” Balaoro said.

“In spite of the armed conflict with the NPAs in the area, the Bayanihan teams will continue conducting their activities to help uplift the living conditions of locals,” Balaoro added.

“The 87th IB will pursue its quest for peace in the communities of Samar. We will act deliberately and proportionately against all armed threats perpetrated by the NPA or any armed groups which hamper peace and development in the communities,” Balaoro added.

In a related event, on January 28, 2013, the Bayanihan team of 87th IB encountered undetermined number of NPAs near Barangay Canvais, Motiong, Western Samar.

The Bayanihan teams of 8th ID continue to facilitate the delivery of basic services to the communities.

http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1221359896799