Two ranking members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed in a recent encounter with government forces in Agusan del Sur province, the Philippine Army reported Friday.
In a statement, the 401st Infantry Brigade (401Bde) identified the slain rebels as Larry Garcia, alias Joven, commanding officer of the Regional Sentro De Grabidad, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), and his vice commanding officer, known only as alias Gaga or Garing.
The encounter which took place in Sitio Kapunan, Barangay San Lorenzo in Prosperidad town on Feb. 12 involved troops from the 3rd Special Forces Battalion, who recovered a hand grenade, a claymore mine, blasting caps, assorted medical supplies, two backpacks, a handheld radio, and subversive documents from the clash site.
The remains of the two rebels were turned over to the local government of Prosperidad for proper disposition.
“The operation was launched following persistent reports from residents that NPA members had been extorting goods and money, disrupting their peaceful lives,” said Col. Emil Cruz, acting commander of the 401Bde.
Cruz assured the public of the Army’s continued efforts to secure communities and called on remaining NPA members to surrender and reintegrate into society.
“We encourage those still in the armed struggle to lay down their weapons and return to the folds of the law. Peace and prosperity await those who choose the path of reconciliation,” he added. (PNA)
