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TWO terrorists were killed as members of the Philippine Army Special Forces and communist terrorist group (CTG) of undetermined number collided in hinterland villages in Caraga region on Tuesday.
In a belated report, Lt. Col. Francisco Garello Jr., public affairs chief, 4th Infantry Division (4ID), said the encounters erupted in Butuan City and San Agustin in Surigao del Sur province. The encounters resulted in the deaths of two militia fighters.
Garello said the 4ID troops clashed with CTG and seized three high-powered firearms following the death of an unidentified communist operative.
Garello said the troops from the 29th Infantry Battalion, led by Lt. Col. Mark Tabon under the 901st Infantry Brigade (901IB), engaged an estimated 10 members of the CTG in a 10-minute gunfight.
The rebels, Garello said, were from the Platoon 1 of the Sub-Regional Sentro de Grabidad Westland (SRSDG-WL) of the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) at Sitio Dinakpan in Barangay Los Angeles, Butuan City.
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The same rebels, Garello added, were involved in a firefight that led to the neutralization of two CTGs and the seizure of one AK-47 rifle, one Bushmaster rifle, medical supplies, and personal belongings.
The CTG, Garello said, figured in previous fighting twice with army soldiers of the 3rd Special Forces Battalion (3SFBn) led by Lt. Col. Jason Pangandoyon, under the operational control of the 401IB, in Barangay Pong-On, San Agustin, Surigao del Sur.
In the first encounter, troops recovered one AK-47 rifle with a magazine, three backpacks, and medical supplies. In the second clash, four suspected CTG members were captured and are currently undergoing verification and identification.
Brig. Gen. Michele Anayron Jr., commander of the 4ID, commended the dedication and bravery of the troops involved in these operations, marking a fitting welcome to initiate another chapter of the 4ID's campaign against the CTG.
"These successful operations showcase the 4ID's steadfast commitment to ending decades of insurgency and achieving lasting peace for the people of Caraga," said Anayron.
"We urge the remaining members of the communist terrorist group to surrender and take advantage of the government's reintegration programs for a peaceful life," added Anayron.
The 4ID remains steadfast in ensuring peace and security in Northern Mindanao and Caraga.
"In partnership with local government units, stakeholders, and communities, the division under the new leadership is actively working to eliminate the influence of communist terrorist groups in the region while promoting peace and development for everyone," Anayron said.
