Army encounters NPA terrorists anew, captures high powered firearms

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 30, 2019): Army encounters NPA terrorists anew, captures high powered firearms (By 802nd Brigade, 8ID)

ORMOC CITY -- Operating troops from the 93 Infantry Battalion based in Brgy. Aguiting, Kananga, Leyte engaged in a 10-minute firefight with remnants of the Communist Terrorist Group of FRONT 41, SRC LEVOX, EVRPC in Brgy. Caghalo, Carigara, Leyte early this morning September 30, 2019.

Lieutenant Colonel Roberto Q. Beatisula said they have been receiving reports from the communities in Carigara, Leyte the previous weeks thus, they initiated focused military operations in the area.

He said, “We have monitored the NPA presence in the area with the help of the populace. This indicates that our people had enough of the terrorism of the NPA and want to have peace in their communities. Their disgust led them to report NPA terrorist presence in their barangay. “

The encounter resulted to the capture of War Materiel including: 1-M16 Rifle, 2-M1 Garand Rifles, an explosive, Bandolier with Magazines for M16 Rifle and some personal effects of the fleeing enemy.

While scouring the encounter site in Brgy. Caghalo, Carigara, Leyte. Operating Troops captured the following additional war materials: two (2) M1 Carbine Rifles with one (1) Magazine, one (1) Improvised Shotgun, one (1) Bandolier and 75 Rounds M16 Ammo.

He added that while there was no casualty on the government troops, he believes some of the fleeing NPA terrorists are wounded based on the bloodstains in the encounter site. The operating troops are still pursuing the NPA members who fled from the site.

Meanwhile Brigadier General Lope C. Dagoy, Brigade Commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army said “This encounter speaks of the Army's commitment to end the insurgency here in Leyte. These communists have no place in the area of the peace-loving people of Carigara.”

“I encourage you to heed the call of the communities, lay down your arms and avail of the enhanced comprehensive local integration program (E-CLIP) of the government before you will get killed in combat. For those who are wounded due to this encounter, you have a choice, surrender, or die alone. I am sure your comrades have left you as they fled the area, the government is extending its hand for you to return to the folds of law, it is not too late for you to go back and be with your family," BGen Dagoy added.

"We will actively support the program of the government to peacefully resolve all armed conflicts against peace loving people of Leyte, Southern Leyte and Biliran Let us condemn those who advocate violence and use arms," Dagoy concluded. (PA/PIA)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028087