28 NPA rebels neutralized in eastern, southern Mindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 15): 28 NPA rebels neutralized in eastern, southern Mindanao

The 10th Infantry (Agila) Division of the Philippine Army on Wednesday reported on the neutralization of 28 New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in eastern and southern Mindanao.

Speaking before reporters during the regular AFP-PNP press conference at the Mandaya Hotel in Davao City, 10th ID chief information officer Captain Rhyan Batchar said military operations will continue in their areas of operation.

The 28 NPA rebels were neutralized by the Army since the intensified military operations commenced on February 1, Batchar added.

Of the total number of rebels neutralized, 19 surrendered to different units of the Army; eight were captured; and one was killed.

Government troops also recovered 12 high-powered firearms and 14 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) during the series of military encounters with the rebels in the provinces of Compostela Valley, Davao Oriental and Sarangani, Batchar said.

He said three government troops under the 10th ID were also abducted by the rebels; two in Columbio, Sultan Kudarat and one, a member of Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) in Davao Oriental.

Four civilians were also forcibly taken by the NPAs during the period – two from Agusan del Sur and another two from Compostela Valley.

Batchar also reported of the increased activities of the NPAs the region, including the forced recruitment of civilians in the countryside.

“NPA recruitments started during the unilateral ceasefire. They benefited from the declaration of ceasefire by recruiting new members in the countryside,” Batchar said.

He pointed out that the eight NPA members captured in Sarangani province were all new recruits.

“The eight NPAs are now undergoing inquest procedure. They were charged with frustrated murder case,” he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=964255