FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – The Commanding General, Philippine Army commends the operating troops of 9th Infantry “Spear” Division and the 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division after successful combat operations against CPP-NPA-Terrorists (CNTs) from April 19 to 21, 2020.
On April 19, 9ID’s 2nd Infantry Battalion under Lieutenant Colonel Siegfred Awichen clashed against 30 CNTs at Barangay Salvacion, San Fernando, Masbate. After an hour of firefight, troops seized three M16 rifles, two M4 rifles, one M653 rifle, one M203 grenade launcher, communication devices and subversive documents. Earlier today, April 21, 2IB forces while performing pursuit operation following the encounter on Sunday, received reports from concerned populace that the rebels left several firearms in a copra-drying shack. After checking the site, the Army troops retrieved seven M16 rifles, one M4A1 rifle, one M653 rifle, one shotgun and assorted ammunitions.
On the other hand, troops of 29th Infantry Battalion, 4ID led by Lieutenant Colonel Isagani Criste conducted combat and pursuit operations to CNTs members at Barangay Bangayan, Kicharao, Agusan del Norte last April 20, Monday. A series of three clashes resulted to the neutralization of one suspected high ranking NPA leader, capture of three CNTs members, recovery of one M4 rifle with attached M203 Grenade Launcher, one AK47 rifle and discovery of the rebel group’s hideout. 29IB also rescued a 9-year-old boy after the first encounter.
The recent encounters of 2nd Infantry Battalion of 9th Infantry Division and 29th Infantry Battalion of 4th Infantry Division yielded the recovery of a total of 19 high-powered firearms.
“To the operating troops of 9th Infantry Division and 4th Infantry Division, I commend you for a job well done. You have demonstrated teamwork, dedication, and commitment in serving the people and protecting them from the atrocities of NPA terrorists. Continue to do your mission of safeguarding the lives of the Filipino people,” said Lt. Gen. Gilbert I. Gapay.#