ILOILO CITY – The Philippine Army recovered two firearms and ammunition left by fleeing New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Capiz province.
Troops of the 12th Infantry Battalion retrieved an M16 rifle, one AK-47 rifle, and two magazines after an encounter with NPA rebels in Tapaz town on Saturday, July 19.
SOLDIERS seized two New People’s Army firearms in Tapaz town, Capiz province. (Army/12 IB)
Patrolling troops encountered 10 NPA rebels in Barangay Apero. A 15-minute firefight erupted which lasted until the NPA retreated.
These NPA rebels were said to be remnants of the Central Front and Regional Sentro de Grabidad of the Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay (KR-Panay).
The 3rd Infantry Division lauded operating troops and residents for providing information.
“I commend the relentless dedication of the 12th IB, whose military operations led to the seizure of high-powered firearms and war materials,” said 3rd ID commander Major Gen. Michael Samson.
“This success is equally owed to the vigilance and cooperation of the people of Tapaz, whose timely and accurate information proved instrumental,” added Samson.