DAVAO CITY–Fresh fighting between the government security forces and the New People’s Army (NPA) in a remote area in Asuncion town, Davao del Norte, has claimed the life of a soldier and wounded two others on Sunday afternoon.
Capt. Jerry Lamosao, spokesperson of the Army’s 10th Infantry Division, was unable to disclose the names of the army casualties because their respective families have not been informed yet.
The encounter ensued after the 46th Infantry Battalion responded to information about the presence of armed men in the area, prompting the Army unit to conduct an operation. The encounter lasted about an hour.
Lamosao said the troops were able to recover eight high-powered firearms and one unexploded Improvised Explosive Device (IED) from the NPA rebels.
He said the armed men were the same rebels fleeing from another encounter with the 60th Infantry Battalion along the boundaries of Laak, Compostela Valley province and Asuncion, Davao del Norte.
Lt. Col Gilbert Ombos, commander of the 60th IB, said that while military operations are ongoing in areas threatened by the NPA, the Army remains open for NPA members who want to surrender.
“War has no victors, only victims. Winning without fighting is still the best option. The government is willing and ready to accept and help them (NPA members) return to their normal lives,” Col. Ombos said in a press statement. (Lilian C. Melejor/PNA)
