Government troops seize NPA high-powered firearms, explosives after armed clash in Northern Samar

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 1, 2020): Government troops seize NPA high-powered firearms, explosives after armed clash in Northern Samar (By Ailene N. Diaz)

CATARMAN, Northern Samar, Nov. 30 (PIA)-- Government troops, 43rd Infantry Battalion in particular seized the Communist NPA Terrorists’ (CNTs) high-powered firearms and other explosives after an armed clash at the vicinity of Barangay Mabini, Catarman, Northern Samar on November 27, 2020.

This was learned from a press release through Cpt Jonathan R Mayono (INF) PA, Civil Military Operations Officer.

According to Cpt. Mayono, seized during the clash were one M16 rifle, one shotgun, a hand grenade, detonator with detonator cord, six short and long magazines, 91 rounds of ammunition, bandolier, laptop, cellphones, medical supplies, twenty-two (22) backpacks, five CNT flags, and subversive documents.

The engagement lasted around 15 minutes and no casualty on the government side were reported, while undetermined wounded on the part of the NPA terrorists based on reported bloodstains seen in the clash site, Mayono further informed.

The encounter happened after receiving report from a concerned citizen on the presence of the armed group. The Commander of the 803rd Infantry Brigade, Colonel Lowell R Tan, lauded the troops of 43IB for their efforts in protecting the community, he likewise expressed his gratitude to the residents who gave the information, said Mayono.

“Let us continue engaging the community from the Barangay down to the sitios, to build a strong rapport with the communities and help them cooperate with the government and the armed forces. The government troops are also willing to extend our hand for the wounded members of the NPA,” said Brigade Commander Colonel Lowell R Tan. (ADiaz, PIA-N. Samar)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1060660