From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 23): Army, NPA clash in Surigao del Sur
The bayanihan team under 2nd Special Forces Battalion stationed in Barangay Bitaugan, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur was reportedly fired upon by undetermined number of armed men believed to be members of the lawless New Peoples’ Army (NPA) under Guerilla Front Committee 21B (GFC 21B) around 9:20 a.m., Wednesday.
The team was previously deployed in Barangay Bitaugan an indigenous people (IP) community and a known NPA-influenced barangay purposely to conduct peace and development activities and facilitate the delivery of basic services in partnership with IP leaders, local government unit of San Miguel, government agencies and other stakeholders in the province.
Troops are on defensive posture due to the Suspension of Offensive Military Operations (SOMO) against NPA. SOMO took effect starting today, Dec. 23, 2015 and will end up to Jan. 3, 2016.
The unilateral implementation of SOMO to the NPA demonstrates the government’s commitment and sincerity to promote peace in spite of conflicts with the insurgent groups.
This SOMO will provide opportunity for the villagers and even the NPA in the conflict-affected areas to celebrate yuletide spirit in peace and harmony with families and loved ones.
SOMO will only cover deliberate offensive operations against NPA but it does not prohibit the AFP to conduct security patrols aimed to protect the communities.
The bayanihan team accordingly was only defended themselves against NPA attacks.
As of press time, another firefight was ensued near the boundary of Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur.
“Despite of the NPA terroristic act, we will continue our commitment to secure the people and communities and we will adhere and respect our commitment to SOMO,” said Col. Isidro Purisima, brigade commander of 402nd Infantry Brigade.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1741450852276/army-npa-clash-in-surigao-del-sur
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