ILOILO CITY – A New People’s Army rebel was killed in a clash with soldiers in Tapaz town, Capiz province, on Wednesday, Feb. 26.
The 82nd Infantry Battalion engaged seven communist fighters believed to be remnants of the dismantled Central Front of the Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay in a five-minute firefight in Barangay Minan. The NPA fled after encounter and left the body of their comrade.
The 3rd Infantry Division has yet to identify the slain NPA rebel.
Recovered from the encounter site were 30 M1 carbine rifles, two 12-gauge shotguns, six 12-gauge shotgun ammunition, and other war materials.
The 3rd ID hierarchy lauded the 82nd IB and residents who reported to the presence of the NPA.
“Tapaznons have been on our side since we started our quest towards achieving a peaceful and progressive Tapaz and Panay Island. We are glad that we still have their support in our effort now to neutralize the remaining communist-terrorists,” said Brig. Gen. Michael Samson, acting commander of the 3rd ID.