A suspected communist rebel died after the Philippine Army (PA) and New People’s Army (NPA) engaged in an armed encounter in Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro on Friday, March 14.
Elements of the Army’s 4th Infantry Battalion under the 2nd Infantry Division (2ID) were conducting security operations at Sitio Cabuyao in Barangay Panaytayan when they encountered an armed group.
Accordingly, the troops received information from concerned citizens about extortion activities being conducted by the rebels in their community.
The firefight lasted for 15 minutes before the rebels fled on foot.
Major General Cerilo Balaoro Jr., commander of 2ID, said a communist rebels was killed during the gun-battle while no casualty was recorded on the government’s side.
The identity of the slain rebel was not disclosed.
The troops also recovered an M16 rifle at the encounter site.
Balaoro recognized the crucial role of residents in recent security operations, commending their vigilance in reporting the presence of armed groups.
“Our collective aspiration for lasting peace, security, and progress in Mindoro is becoming a reality, thanks to the continuous cooperation of our kababayans,” he said.
Last Dec. 19, the 2ID said a female member of the NPA also died in an encounter in Roxas, Oriental Mindoro.