Two days before, July 10, the troops of 25IB engaged in firefight the same rebel group in Brgy Casoon, Monkayo, CVP. On this said encounter, said troops siezed an NPA encampment.
Prior to this series of encounters, Ltc Ismael Mandanas, commander of 25IB said that they have been receiving reports that the same NPA rebel group will consolidate at Brgy Casoon to conduct tactical offensives prior to President Duterte's State of the Nation Address (SONA) in compliance to their communist leaders instructions.
Major General Noel S Clement, 10ID commander, lauded the bravery of the troops. Clement expressed sorrow while rendering his salute to the fallen soldier for offering the ultimate sacrifice in pursuit of peace for the people.
"We will not lower our guards against any armed threat that can harm the peaceful living of our people," Clement said.
Troops are still in pursuit against the fleeing NPA rebels. While Army-Police checkpoints were immediately established in the different areas of 10ID.