She said the firefight happened when operating units of the JTGS was conducting combat patrol led by 1st Lieutenant Jose Luis Asperin.
Asperin’s team encountered a communist-terrorist group allegedly under NPA leader Vincent “Ka Allan” Libuna in Quinlogan.
The firefight that lasted for about 45 minutes resulted in the recovery of one M60 machine gun, two M16 rifles, one M14 rifle, one bandolier with seven loaded magazines, two cellphones, two M203 ammunition, and other subversive items.
There was no casualty on the side of the government troops while the rebels had a still undetermined number.
At present, the troops are conducting clearing operations in the encounter area.
Meanwhile, Wescom commander, Lt. Gen. Rozzano Briguez, was also quoted in the statement saying the arrest of the two rebels is a positive result in their effort to dismantle the NPA in Palawan.
“Our focused military operations and community support programs have yielded positive results in our efforts to dismantle the communist terrorists in the Province of Palawan. We are grateful to our peace partners in the communities for their cooperation with the authorities that led to this successful operation against the enemies of peace,” said Briguez.
He said Wescom’s efforts are relentless in urging the NPA in the province to lay down their arms.
“Our efforts are relentless that’s why we are tirelessly urging the remaining members of the New People’s Army here in Palawan to just lay down their arms, surrender and return to the fold of the law. We will help you to start new lives. But if you will not and chose to sow terror, we will go after you and hope will be far from your sight,” he added.
Despite the clash, Wescom still supports the government’s move for localized peace talks and the implementation of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) for former rebels. (Celeste Anna Formoso/PNA)
