Fleeing NPA surrenders, soldiers recover war materiel after Batangas encounter

A member of the New People’s Army yielded to the government while soldiers recovered war materiel following an encounter between the Philippine Army’s 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division and the Communist Terrorist Group in Calauag, Quezon on March 25-26, 2024.

 

On March 25, troops of the 21st Division Reconnaissance Company encountered 7 armed personalities of Platun Reymark from the Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee at Barangay Doña Aurora, resulting in a 25-minute firefight. Two soldiers who were injured during the fight are now in stable condition. Meanwhile, casualties on the rebels’ side are still being verified.

 

On the same day, soldiers of the 85th Infantry “Sandiwa” Battalion received information from concerned citizens and barangay officials regarding an unknown person asking for help which turned out to be alias Bibo, a rebel fleeing from the previous encounter. He then voluntarily surrendered to the troops.

 

Subsequently, on March 26, soldiers conducting operations at the said barangay found and recovered an M16 rifle, a bandolier with 7 magazines, and 3 Anti-Personnel Mines.

 

The 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division Commander Maj. Gen. Roberto S. Capulong commended the bravery and vigilance of the troops involved in the successful encounter, emphasizing their dedication to securing peace and stability in the region. He also expressed gratitude to the concerned citizens and barangay officials whose cooperation and timely information resulted in the apprehension of the fleeing rebel.

 

Maj. Gen. Capulong urged the remaining NPA members to abandon armed struggle and take advantage of the government programs aimed at reintegrating former rebels into mainstream society. He then reiterated the military’s commitment to peace and development initiatives while ensuring the safety and security of communities across Southern Tagalog.