ILOILO CITY (PIA6) – The Philippine Army confirmed that five alleged members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed in an encounter in Brgy. Aglonok Calinog, Iloilo on August 9, 2024.
301st Brigade Commander Brigadier General Michael Samson said in a media interview that the encounter was part of the pursuit operations of the joint forces of the 61st Infantry Battalion (IB), 12th IB and 82nd IB to pursue the remaining rebels in the province.
Among the items recovered from the encounter were two M16 Rifles, an M203 Grenade Launcher; an Anti-Personnel Mine (APM); ammunition, some communication and ICT equipment; subversive documents; and personal equipment.
The Philippine Army already coordinated with local government units and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to find the families of the dead alleged rebels.
The 12IB said its unit is extending financial and burial assistance to the families of the victims through LGUs and other government agencies, such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
3rd Infantry Division commander Major General Mario R. Sison urged the remaining rebels to surrender so that they could be given proper assistance by the government and return to mainstream society.
According to Sison, through the government’s Enhanced-Comprehensive Local Integration and Amnesty Programs, the rebels can ensure a more productive and meaningful life with their families.
“Your organization is dying and popular support is turning against you. Don’t suffer the same fate as your companions. Surrender now before it’s too late. Your Army is more than willing to embrace you towards the path to Peace,” Sison added. (AAL/JNH/PIA Iloilo/with reports from Philippine Army Spearhead Troopers)
