Encounter erupts between Army, NPA

By Funny Pearl A. Gajunera
The military reported an encounter between members of the 66th Infantry Battalion (IB) and the New People’s Army (NPA) in Purok 3, Barangay Andap, New Bataan Compostela Valley Province yesterday morning.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said the rebels belonged to the Sentro de Grabidad (SDG) Front-25 Southern Mindanao Regional Command.
In a statement, the 10th Infantry Division said the firefight lasted for 30 minutes and resulted in the recovery of an improvised landmine, four backpacks, two VHF radios, two bandoliers, two M16 rifle magazines, and one AK-47 rifle magazine.
The military is conducting a hot pursuit operation following the encounter.
Earlier, 10th ID commander Major General Eduardo Año, ordered field units to intensify security measures against armed groups in connection with the upcoming NPA anniversary and the observance of the Lenten season.
“As the legitimate protector of the Filipino people, we will always work hard to keep our civilian communities safe from the threats of lawless armed elements such as the CPP (Communist Party of the Philippines)-NPA,” Año said.
The NPA will celebrate its 46th anniversary on March 29.