NPA rebel killed; firearms seized in Masbate clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 11, 2024): NPA rebel killed; firearms seized in Masbate clash (By Connie Calipay)

RECOVERED. The firearms, ammunition, and personal belongings recovered after an encounter between government troops and the New People's Army (NPA) in Masbate City on July 10, 2024. An NPA rebel was killed in the clash. (Photo courtesy of 9ID)

LEGAZPI CITY – A member of the New People's Army (NPA) was killed in an encounter on Wednesday with government troops in Barangay Igang, Masbate City in Masbate province, the Philippine Army (PA) said on Thursday.

Maj. Frank Roldan, 9th Infantry Division (9ID) Public Affairs Unit chief, identified the slain rebel as Marvin Bareja Ipil, alias Martin, from Mobo town, Masbate.

He said other NPA members fled and left their comrade's body after encountering the soldiers from the 96th Infantry Battalion in the area.

"The armed men of the Komiteng Larangang Guerilla-North ng Sub-regional Committee 4, operating in Masbate, fled after a 10-minute firefight. The body of the NPA member was still in a funeral home in Masbate City," he said.

Roldan said an M14 and an M16 rifle, and miscellaneous items were recovered at the encounter site.

9ID Commander Maj. Gen. Adonis Bajao said the success of the operation is proof of the effective cooperation between the local residents and the military.

He urged the community to continue cooperating with the authorities and report any suspicious activities to maintain security and peace in their area.

"We are very grateful to the citizens who tirelessly provide us with information. Your support is essential to our mission to suppress insurgent groups and protect our communities," he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1228770