Soldier wounded in clash with alleged rebels in Leyte

From Sun Star (Dec 31, 2024): Soldier wounded in clash with alleged rebels in Leyte (By Ronald O. Reyes)

A SOLDIER from the 93rd Infantry Battalion was rushed to a nearby hospital after he was injured in a firefight between government troops and alleged remnants of the New People's Army (NPA) in Barangay Canhandugan, Jaro, Leyte on Monday, December 30, 2024.

Lieutenant Colonel Charlie Saclot, the battalion commanding officer, said they were in the area after receiving information from the residents about the presence of unidentified armed individuals in their farmlands, which resulted in the encounter.

The five-minute clash resulted in the seizure of one .45 caliber pistol, three improvised explosive devices (IEDs), ammunition, and other war material, Saclot said in a statement.

The casualties from the rebels’ side have yet to be determined while hot pursuit and clearing operations were underway.

According to the Army report, the wounded soldier is already in a stable condition.

“I also urge all Leyteños to continue denying any form of support to terrorist groups to advance our collective goal of freeing our communities from fear, intimidation, and exploitation,” added Brigadier General Noel Vestuir, commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade.

He lauded troops of the 93rd Infantry Battalion “for their swift response to the residents' concerns.”

Vestuir also urged the rebels “to return to the folds of the law and avail themselves of the government's services, such as the Amnesty Program, which offers forgiveness and a chance to start anew.”

Meanwhile, the Leyte Police Provincial Office (LPPO) said it is closely monitoring the recent encounter in Jaro, Leyte.

“The LPPO extends its full support to the Philippine Army and commends its valor as partner in the maintenance of public safety and security,” said Colonel Dionisio DC Apas Jr, provincial director,

“The Office urges residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. Any information regarding this incident or the identities of the communist terrorist groups involved will make an impactful significance. Thus, community cooperation is crucial,” the Leyte police official added. (Ronald Reyes/SunStar Philippines)

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/tacloban/soldier-wounded-in-clash-with-alleged-rebels-in-leyte#google_vignette