Four alleged NPA members killed in Occidental Mindoro clash vs military

December 14, 2020

Four alleged members of New People's Army (NPA) were killed in a clash with government troops in Occidental Mindoro on Monday morning.

Cpt. Jayrald Ternio, public affairs chief of the 2nd Infantry Division, said the firefight between government troops and around 20 rebels occurred at the vicinity of Brgy. Aguas, Rizal municipality around 6 am.

"This encounter came after concerned citizens prompted the soldiers of the terrorists' presence in the area," he said

Ternio said the 30-minute clash resulted in the killing of four alleged rebels and the recovery of eight high powered firearms.

He said based on the recovered bodies one female and three male rebels were killed while the recovered firearms were six M16A1 rifles, one M653 rifle and one M14 rifle.

For his part, Major Gen Greg Almerol, commander of 2nd ID, recognized the bravery and cooperation of the residents who reported the presence of the rebels.

“Your bravery fuels your soldiers’ commitment to finally end terrorism in our country. Together, we will surely bring down this barrier that prevents our nation from achieving peace and progress," he said.

Almerol also offered his condolences to the families left behind by those who died.

“No family should have to suffer like this, to those who are still bearing arms, please abandon this senseless armed struggle and make use of the government’s E-CLIP program to help you rebuild your new life with your families,” he added.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Gilbert Gapay, also recognized the achievement of the government forces and emphasized the recent accomplishments of the military against the NPA.

"The Armed Forces of the Philippines proudly commends our troops in the National Capital Region, 10th Infantry Division, and 2nd Infantry Division for their significant tactical victories," he said.

Gapay said despite the recent accomplishments against the communist group the military forces will continue its "relentless" operation and strong momentum against the NPA.

"These accomplishments further weaken the communist terrorist group en route to their total collapse in the island of Luzon. Despite these accomplishments, we will continue our relentless internal security operations and maintain our strong momentum going into 2021. Victory is close at hand!," he added. Robina Asido/DMS