Philippine Army Clashes with NPA: 3 Insurgents Killed, Weapons Seized

by: Edjun Mariposque

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June 26, 2024

2–3 minutes

Calamba, Laguna – On June 23, 2024, the 59th Infantry (Protector) Battalion engaged in a fierce confrontation with New People’s Army (NPA) combatants near Barangay Bolbok, Tuy, Batangas. The clash resulted in the deaths of three NPA members and the recovery of firearms and explosives.

Key Details:
Location: Barangay Bolbok, Tuy, Batangas
Date: June 23, 2024
Involved Units: 59th Infantry Battalion (59IB)
NPA Groups: SPP KAWING, SRMA 4C, STRPC

Armed Confrontation:
– Acting on a tip from concerned residents, troops from the 59IB conducted a security patrol in the area.
– They encountered an estimated nine Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) at a river junction.
– After the initial firefight, two unidentified NPA combatants were found dead at the scene.
– Government forces seized the following weapons:
    – One M16 rifle
    – One R4 rifle
    – One Uzi sub-machine gun
    – One improvised hand grenade
– In a subsequent clash, another NPA combatant was killed, and an Uzi sub-machine gun was recovered.
– Fortunately, no government troops were injured during the encounters.

Community Cooperation:
– Brig. Gen. Cerilo C Balaoro Jr., Commander of the 202nd Infantry Brigade, emphasized the importance of community cooperation.
– Residents’ complaints about NPA members foraging and extorting supplies led to the security action.
– Task Force ELCAC’s collaboration empowered the community to take decisive action against terrorist groups.

Call for Peace:
– BGen Balaoro extended condolences to the bereaved families of the fallen NPA members.
– He urged remaining NPA fighters to choose peace, lay down their arms, and return to lawful lives.

Ongoing Operations:
– The Army continues operations in collaboration with local authorities to persuade remaining NPA terrorists to surrender.
– The 59IB actively pursues the remaining members of SPP KAWING.
– Nearby communities are reminded to report any suspicious activities related to NPA remnants.

Previous Encounter:
– On March 26, 2024, another armed encounter occurred in Brgy Leviste, Rosario, Batangas.
– Three NPA members were killed, and war materiel and subversive documents were captured.

The Philippine Army remains committed to protecting the nation and ensuring the safety of every Filipino. Peace and development in CALABARZON are hindered by the presence of armed groups, but community resolve remains strong.

#Edjun Mariposque

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