BAGUMBAYAN, Sultan Kudarat — Government troops recovered an improvised bomb, high-powered firearms and foodstuff following a clash with members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in the hinterlands of this province, a military official announced Friday.
Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc, Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion, said the clash happened at about 4 p.m. Thursday at Sitio Laguicon, Barangay Sto. Niño, this municipality.
Cabunoc said the joint military and police forces led by 2nd Lt. Carlito Christopher Agustin, backed by artillery and mortars, pounded the NPA rebels hiding in a thickly forested hill.
“They are remnants of the communist rebel groups who surrendered and availed of government amnesty program,” he said, adding that no one among the troops was killed or wounded during the clash.
Cabunoc could not also say if the NPA rebels, who fled, have suffered casualties as “there was no body count.”
He said they have been implementing a two-pronged approach — offensives but with open arms for those who wish to surrender.
A day before the clash, Cabunoc said two NPA rebels came down from the hills and peacefully surrendered.
“We welcomed the two with open arms for they have chosen the right path than engage a more powerful Philippine Army,” he said.
He noted that more insurgents have expressed their intention to surrender.
Cabunoc have told residents of Sitio Sinaban in Barangay Sto Nino to remain calm and vigilant and not to leave their homes as the military is on top of the situation. (PNA)
