ILOILO CITY – A New People’s Army rebel was killed in an encounter with the 61st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army in Barangay Culyat, Valderrama town, Antique province on Saturday, August 24.
GUNS and bullets were seized in an August 24 clash in Valderrama, Antique. (Army 61 IB)
The casualty was identified as John Alminaza Capio, alias Ka Ronron.
The 61st IB sympathized with Carpio’s family.
“We want to extend our sympathy and condolences to his family. We are also saddened to see our enemy dying,” said Lt. Col. Arturo Balgos Jr., 61st IB commanding officer, on Sunday, August 25.
Capio was among seven NPA rebels who engaged 61st IB troops in a five-minute firefight.
The 38-year-old communist rebel from Tubungan town, Iloilo province was the former squad leader of the now defunct Southern Front in Panay Island.
Troops recovered four M-16 rifles, an M-14 rifle, and ammunition in the gunbattle.
Balgos commended operating troops for their achievement. “It was an exemplary job. I urge you to continue the high state of discipline, morale, and mission capabilities,” added Balgos.