ILOILO CITY — Five suspected rebels from a communist terrorist group (CTG) were killed and several high-powered firearms were seized during Philippine Army operations in Negros Occidental on Saturday, May 16.
The clashes took place in the hinterlands of Barangays Abaca and Poblacion in Cauayan town after troops from the 15th Infantry Battalion, under the 302nd Infantry “Achiever” Brigade, responded on information provided by local residents regarding the presence of armed individuals in the area.
According to the military, government troops engaged remnants of the South-West Front of Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros (KR-N) during a series of clashes.
Recovered from the encounter sites were eight high-powered firearms, including an M60 machine gun.
READ: Negros clash: 2 Americans among suspected rebels killed
Maj. Gen. Michael G. Samson, commander of the 3rd Infantry “Spearhead” Division, described the operation as a significant setback for the remaining CTG elements in the region.
“This operation demonstrates the unwavering commitment of our troops, in partnership with local communities, to protect the people from threats and atrocities perpetrated by these armed groups,” Samson said.
He also underscored the importance of civilian cooperation in sustaining peace and security efforts.
“The tip-off from the local populace reflects the growing trust and confidence of communities in the Army. We assure the public that intensified and focused military operations will continue to prevent fleeing communist terrorist group members from regrouping and disrupting the peaceful lives of civilians,” he added.
The 3rd Infantry Division also renewed its appeal to remaining insurgents to surrender peacefully, abandon the armed struggle, and avail themselves of government reintegration programs to facilitate their return to mainstream society. /gsg
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