5 Reds killed, high-powered arms seized in Masbate clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10, 2023): 5 Reds killed, high-powered arms seized in Masbate clash (By Priam Nepomuceno)

SEIZED. The high-powered firearms seized from communist rebels in the aftermath of an encounter with government troops in Cawayan, Masbate on Thursday (Feb. 9, 2023). The AFP on Friday (Feb. 10, 2023) said five rebels were killed while four others were captured after the clash. (Photo courtesy of 9th Infantry Division)

MANILA – Five communist rebels were killed in a clash with government forces in the province of Masbate on Thursday morning.

In a statement Friday, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief Col. Jorry Baclor said the clash took place in Barangay Guiom in Cawayan town.

Baclor said troops of the 2nd Infantry Battalion, under the Philippine Army's 9th Infantry Division (9ID), were patrolling the area after receiving reports on the presence of NPA insurgents, when they encountered about 20 rebels who fired at them.

"The 20-minute encounter resulted in five CNTs (Communist-NPA-Terrorists) killed, four captured, including a wounded member, and six high-powered firearms recovered. There were no casualties on the side of the AFP," Baclor said.

Meanwhile, 9ID commander Maj. Gen. Adonis Bajao said with this accomplishment, the AFP is inching closer to ending the communist threat in the province.

Bajao, however, said he is "saddened by this kind of incident."

"We cannot disregard the threat of terrorism that affects our community. Hence, we continue to call on the members of the CTGs (communist terrorist groups) and encourage them to surrender so that they can be with their loved ones and live a peaceful life," he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1194877