Army ops lead to NPA's setback in NorMin, 3 'neutralized'

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 22, 2024): Army ops lead to NPA's setback in NorMin, 3 'neutralized' (By Nef Luczon)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The string of recent military operations of the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division (4ID) have resulted in the deaths and surrender of communist rebels and the seizure of high-powered firearms in Northern Mindanao.

Major Gen. Jose Ma. Cuerpo II, the 4ID commander, said the continuous combat operations against the communist New People’s Army (NPA) led to a "substantial setback" to the remaining combatants.

"They have not learned at all that the law-abiding residents desire development and abhor illegal firearms and violence," Cuerpo said in a statement on Thursday.

From Aug. 11 to 19, the 4ID forces clashed with NPA remnants, leading to three rebels dead and several others wounded and surrendered.

The series of military operations also led to the seizure of 13 firearms, including areas in the Caraga Region and Lanao del Sur province in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Cuerpo said that in upholding human rights and international humanitarian law, the troops promptly administered first aid to the injured rebel who they rescued after being wounded.

"We are committed with the cooperation of the people and other stakeholders to deny them any support and influence," he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1231787