5 NPAs killed, 9 firearms recovered in Oriental Mindoro encounters
CAMP CAPINPIN, Rizal - A total of five members of the New People’s Army died and nine firearms were recovered by the government forces in three consecutive encounters in Pinamalayan, Oriental Mindoro on Sunday, November 19, 2023.
Troops of the 203rd Infantry “Bantay Kapayapaan” Brigade were conducting combat operations at Sitio Tugas in Barangay Sabang pwhen they came across 15 NPA members, resulting in a 20-minute firefight where two rebels were killed while 3 high-powered firearms and an upper receiver were recovered by the troops. No casualty was recorded on the government side.
Shortly after, another 10-minute encounter occurred at the said sitio between the pursuing government forces and fleeing rebels which resulted in the death of another NPA and the recovery of four high-powered firearms. Two soldiers were slightly wounded during the encounter.
The third firefight at the said sitio resulted in the death of another NPA and the recovery of two more high-powered firearms. No casualty was recorded on the government side during the encounter.
In a statement, the 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division Commander Maj. Gen. Roberto S. Capulong reiterated that the military will never rejoice in the deaths of our kababayans who perished for the worthless cause of the Communist Terrorist Groups.
He highlighted the importance of these encounters in weakening the NPA's capabilities and disrupting their activities, adding that the recovered firearms will be crucial in preventing further violence and ensuring the safety of the local communities.
Maj. Gen. Capulong assured the public that the military remains steadfast in its commitment to collaborating with the Local Government Units, other government agencies, valued stakeholders, and the communities in addressing the root causes of insurgency, fostering a peaceful atmosphere that allows for progress and prosperity in the entire Mindoro Island.
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