LEGAZPI CITY, Albay – Two members of the New People's Army (NPA) were killed in an encounter in Purok 6, Barangay Bascaran, Daraga, Albay, three kilometers away from Bicol International Airport (BIA) on Tuesday afternoon, October 3.
Police identified the slain rebels as Rizaldy Perdigon, alias "Sandro," and Allan Balde Leron, alias "Jason," members of Platoon 3, Sub-Regional Committee 3, Bicol Regional Party Committee.
The Daraga Municipal Police Station was manning the traffic at the Bascaran Police Assistance Center (BPAC) at the junction of the national highway and road going to BIA at around 4:50 p.m. when an undetermined numbers of NPA rebels onboard motorcycles fired at duty police officers.
Police Lt. Col. Malu Calubaquib, Police Regional Office-5 (PRO-5) spokesperson, said police retaliated and killed one communist guerrilla.
Fleeing rebels were chased by government troops. Another NPA was killed during the chase.
"Upon requesting backup, troops from the 2nd APFMC stationed in Baangay Bascaran, Daraga, Albay, Alpha Company 31st IB, and RID 5-SOU5 promptly arrived at the scene. They engaged with the remaining CTGs members, successfully neutralizing another suspect while the others fled in different directions," Calubaquib said.
The gun battle lasted at least an hour.
"Scene-of-the-Crime Operatives (SOCO) team processed the crime scene, resulting in the recovery of critical pieces of evidence, including one M16 rifle, two steel magazines loaded with ammunition, two caliber .45 pistols, three magazines loaded with ammunition for caliber .45 pistol, and one Rusi motorcycle," Calubaquib added.
Bicol police director Police Brig. Gen. Westrimundo Obinque has ordered the Albay Police Provincial Office (APPO) to investigate the attack.
"He has instructed them to conduct a thorough and comprehensive investigation into the matter. Additionally, he has emphasized the importance of enhancing police presence not only in the immediate area but also in the different parts of the region to closely monitor any potential activities that may be initiated by the CTGs," Calubaquib said.
"The actions of the CTG unequivocally showcase their complete disregard for the well-being and safety of innocent civilians residing in the area. These actions blatantly underscore their self-serving objectives, which prioritizes their own agenda over the lives and security of the local population,” she added.
“Obinque commended police for bravely confronting the rebels. He recognized their selfless actions as a true embodiment of the meaning of service to the people and resolute dedication to fulfilling their duties to serve and protect. In the light of this event, PRO-5 continues to intensify all its anti-criminality operations, underscoring its commitment to safeguard the public and uphold peace throughout the region," Calubaquib said.