2 suspected communist rebels killed in Bukidnon clash –military

From GMA News Online (Jan 31, 2022): 2 suspected communist rebels killed in Bukidnon clash –military (By GISELLE OMBAY)

The military killed two alleged Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) rebels and captured two others during a Saturday encounter in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.

In a statement, the Philippine Army said its 2nd Scout Ranger Battalion and the 8th Infantry Battalion (IB) responded to a report of armed men in Sitio Lamana, Barangay Kibalabag.

According to the military, a firefight broke out with five members of Headquarters Force Neo, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC).

The two suspected rebel fatalities were identified as Alias Draw and Alias Paet, while the two captured were 72-years-old Nisy Sante Alias Arnold 20-year-old Gelloye Lipanya Sagula alias Janjan.

Three .45 caliber pistols, a 9mm pistol, five magazines, one cellphone, and medical supplies were seized at the encounter site.

During a search in the area, government troops were also able to rescue seven civilians including four minors.

Lieutenant Colonel Anthony Bacus, 8th IB Commander, said the alleged NPA rebels threatened the rescued civilians.

Bacus added that the suspected rebels were extorting vegetables from the civilian farms and they “immediately fired” when they saw the soldiers approaching.

The military is waiting for the family members of the killed individuals to claim the bodies.

Bacus reiterated the call for rebels to surrender and avail of the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

Meanwhile, 403rd Infantry Brigade Commander Brigadier General Ferdinand Barandon lauded the troops for the operation, which was part of their goal to end local insurgency in the area.

“We also thank the residents who reported the presence of the CNTs which led us into stopping their terroristic activities against the innocent people of Bukidnon,” he added.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/regions/820185/2-suspected-communist-rebels-killed-in-bukidnon-clash-military/story/