More troops in pursuit of fleeing CNTs amid MisOcc encounter

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 20, 2019): More troops in pursuit of fleeing CNTs amid MisOcc encounter

ALORAN, Misamis Occidental -- Additional troops are now in Misamis Occidental following an encounter in Aloran town in Misamis Occidental after the fleeing Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT).

One Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) was killed in an encounter with the 10th Infantry Battalion (10IB) in Brgy. San Pedro, Aloran at around 9:40 a.m on Feb. 18, 2019.

Prior to the encounter that lasted about 30 minutes, residents of the barangay reported to 10IB personnel the presence of CNTs who were trying to recruit the youth to join their movement and extorting from the populace.

“The encounter was the result of the information received by our troops from a concerned civilian who reported the presence of an armed group in their community while we are conducting community security operations,” said Lt. Col. John Andrada, 10IB Commander.

The troops scoured the scene of encounter and recovered one AK 47 rifle, three magazines and subversive documents with high intelligence value.

Blood stains were seen along the CNT’s withdrawal routes believed to be those of wounded members.

“We already identified CNT’s lairs and they have no place to go. We call on those NPA terrorists to lay down their arms peacefully, be given proper medication and we ensure them that their rights will be respected," said Col. Bagnus Gaerlan, 102nd Brigade Commander.

Meanwhile, BGen. Roberto Ancan, commander of the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, said the Army together with the local government units, the civil society organizations, other stakeholders and "the peace-loving people of Misamis Occidental continue to call upon the NPA terrorists to listen to the call for peace of the people, lay down your arms, return to the folds of the law and avail of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).”

He also expressed sympathy to the family and relatives of the NPA terrorist who was killed.

“It is very tragic that he has taken arms against the people of Misamis Occidental when only through peace can lead development and social justice be achieved,” Ancan added.

Members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) conducted investigation in the encounter site.

Troops of 10IB are also in close communication with the barangay officials to ensure the safety and security of the residents in the area. (1ID DPAO/PA)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1018739