BUTUAN CITY – A New People’s Army commanding officer and his vice commander were killed in an encounter with soldiers in Barangay San Lorenzo, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur on Wednesday, Feb. 12.
The casualties were identified as Joven, commanding officer of the Regional Sentro de Gravidad of the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee, and Garing, vice commanding officer. Their bodies were turned over to the local government of Prosperidad for proper disposition.
Capt. Arc F. Jayson, civil-military operations officer of the 401st Infantry (Unite N’ Fight) Brigade, said they launched the operation after receiving reports that communist rebels have been extorting goods and money from residents.
Troops engaged the NPA in a 15-minute firefight and left behind the bodies of the two casualties, two backpacks, a handheld radio, two Nokia cellphones, blasting caps, grenade, claymore mine, medical supplies, and subversive documents.
These were taken to proper authorities for further investigation and subsequent filing of criminal cases.
Col. Emil Cruz, commanding officer of the 401st Brigade, commended troops for their achievement.
Cruz urged the remaining NPA members to surrender and live a peaceful life.
"We remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of our community,” he said. “This successful operation is a testament to the support of the local residents who stand alongside with us in our shared quest for a peaceful and progressive life for all of us."
Soldiers are pursuing the fleeing rebels.