Soldier killed in armed encounter with NPAs in Nueva Ecija

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 9, 2023): Soldier killed in armed encounter with NPAs in Nueva Ecija (By Jason De Asis)

SLAIN SOLDIER. Private First Class Sher Nelson B. Casayuran, the soldier killed during an encounter with rebels on Sunday (Oct. 8, 2023) in Laur town, Nueva Ecija province. The encounter happened after soldiers responded to the report of villagers about an armed group harassing the people. (Photo courtesy of Army's 7th ID)

FORT MAGSAYSAY, Palayan City, Nueva Ecija – A military personnel from the 84th Infantry (Victorious) Battalion, Philippine Army was killed following an armed encounter with the members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in the hinterlands of Barangay San Fernando, Laur, Nueva Ecija on Sunday.

In his report on Monday, Major Gen. Andrew D. Costelo, commander of the Army's 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, said Private First Class (PFC) Sher Nelson B. Casayuran sustained a gunshot wound and was declared dead on arrival at the Dr. Paulino J. Garcia Memorial Research and Medical Center, Cabanatuan City, this province.

Costelo said the encounter took place following a tip-off from the residents that around 10 CTG members were circling the area and harassing the people by brandishing their guns. Troops were immediately sent to the area.

"Those CTG(communist terrorist group) members were armed and has been terrorizing the community. Pinipilit nilang sumuporta ang mga tao sa kanila kasi hindi na nga sila makagalaw dahil wala na silang suporta ng masa. Kaya panay ang pananakot nila sa mga tao (They are forcing the people to support them because they can no longer move due to lack of people's support. They are always threatening the people),” he said in media interview.

"The Kaugnay troopers mourn for the loss of PFC Casayuran. His bravery, dedication, and heroism will not be forgotten as he offered his ultimate sacrifice just to protect the people of Laur,” he said.

Costelo asked the residents to remain calm and vigilant and report to the authorities any unusual activities in their communities.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1211413