Alleged NPA killed in Agusan del Sur encounter

May 26, 2020

Government troops killed an alleged member of New People's Army (NPA) and recovered high-powered firearms in a clash in Agusan del Sur on Sunday afternoon, a military officer reported on Tuesday.

1Lt Percival Carido,  civil military officer of the 26th Infantry Battalion, said the government troops encountered armed rebels in a forested area of Sitio Pigdusuan, Barangay Mahagsay, San Luis muncipality.

Carido said the troops were conducting focused military operation in response to the reported presence of the armed men.

"Allegedly, the NPA group extorted food stuffs and cash from rice and corn farmers in the nearby barangay who have just sold their produce. A series of encounters ensued when the Army troops checked the area," he said.

After the clash, government forces recovered the body of an alleged rebel and three high-powered firearms at the encounter site.

The recovered war materials and other items includes three AK47 rifles, three magazines, ammunition, two backpacks and subversive documents.

Carido said Lt. Col. Romeo Jimenea, 26th IB commanding officer, commended the troops and attributed the success of the operations to the communities who supported the Philippine Army.

“It is a clear proof of the locals trust on us to protect them, and for that, we will continue our initiatives in order to safeguard our people,” Jimenea said. Robina Asido/DMS