Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) reported that the encounter occurred after the military monitored a build-up of communist terrorist group (CTG) elements belonging to the NPA’s Sub-Regional Committee 2 (SRC2), Headquarters Loader, and Regional Sentro De Gravidad (RSDG) Compaq all of North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) in hinterlands of Malaybalay City.
According to EastMinCom spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Ma. Cristina Manuel, the presence of the CTG in the area feared many residents in the community prompting the launching of military offensive.
The operations was successfully conducted through Close Air Support (CAS) from the Tactical Operations Group 10 (TOG10) of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and artillery support from the 4th and 10th Field Artillery Battalions (FAB) to the maneuvering forces of 403rd Infantry Brigade (403Bde).
The troops also seized various firearms including four M16 Rifles, M16 Rifle attached with an M203 Grenade Launcher, 12-Gauge Shotgun, Caliber .45 Pistol, and Hand Grenade.
Manuel said they have yet to identify the slain NPA members.
4th ID Commander Major General Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II in a statement vowed to continue their campaign until the remaining CTGs will be inconsequential and their capabilities diminished to the lowest level.
He said despite the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)’s declaration of the 2-day unilateral ceasefire, the command is more than focused to comply with the directive of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to keep the communities safe and end the communist armed conflict.
EastMinCom chief Lieutenant General Greg Almerol, meanwhile, lauded the soldiers for their commitment to secure the people despite the holidays to finally put an end to the local communist armed threats.
Almerol had previously directed his troops on the ground to sustain their offensives to further entice other CTG members to yield and prevent any disturbance as the holidays continue.
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