BUTUAN CITY – A New People’s Army (NPA) rebel was killed while several others were wounded in a gun battle with government forces in Libas, Barangay Sibahay, Lanuza, Surigao del Sur on Saturday, July 8.
Operating troops of the Army 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion (36th IB) responded to reports from residents about the presence of an armed group in their community.
A clearing operation was conducted, resulting into a 10-minute clash in which one NPA rebel was killed.
Soldiers clashed with about eight NPA rebels from Platoon 1, Westland Guerilla Front 30, of the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).
Troops recovered one Carbine, 5.56mm AR15 rifle, five steel magazines of AR15 with 97 rounds 5.56mm live ammunition, and one bandolier in the encounter site.
No casualty was reported on the government side.
Lt. Col. Vincent M. Viray, commanding officer of 36th IB, condoled with the family and friends of the fatality.
He said he has instructed the ground commander to retrieve the body, treat it with respect and dignity, and deliver it to the family once his identity has been confirmed.
Viray said he does not wish further loss of life among NPA rebels but stressed that it is necessary to continue conducting combat operations for the remaining communist guerrillas to consider surrendering.
The 36th IB, along with local government units (LGUs) and partner agencies, aims to provide support and assistance to these individuals, offering them a better life by reintegrating them into the mainstream of society, Viray said.