ARMY units clashed with New Peoples Army (NPA) rebels in Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte on February 23, 2024, killing one insurgent and seizing arms, reports Army’s 29th Infantry Battalion civil-military officer Captain Jade Bryce Buñe, Sunday.
Buñe said in a significant operation in Brgy Concepcion, Cabadbaran City, forces from the Army’s 29th and 30th Infantry Battalion engaged in a clash with NPA members leading to the death of one rebel and the capture of a high-powered firearm along with various war materials.
He said the operation was initiated following tips from concerned civilians about the presence of Communist Groups engaging in extortion activities within the area.
Upon confirmation of these reports, Capt. Buñe said the military swiftly mobilized to address the threat, encountering approximately 10 NPA insurgents believed to be part of the Sub-Regional Sentro de Grabedad, Northland, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee (SRSDG, NL, NEMRC) under the leadership of Ricky M. Per as known as Rem.
The confrontation led to the demise of Leo Salino Mindoro, known by his aliases Yolly and Yang, who was identified as a staff member of the SRSDG Northland.
Among the seized items were an AK47 rifle, war materials, and documents of significant intelligence value.
In the aftermath of the skirmish, military personnel collaborated with the Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) and the Cabadbaran City Police to recover the rebel’s body.
The local government unit of Cabadbaran facilitated the burial arrangements for the deceased, with the military extending outreach to the family of alias Yolly regarding the disposition of his remains.
Army’s 29IB commander Lt. Col. Cresencio C. Gargar seized the moment to urge the remaining NPA rebels to lay down their arms and surrender, assuring them of a fair and just process should they opt for peace.
He expressed his gratitude towards the alert civilians whose reports were crucial in the success of the operation, emphasizing the importance of the military-community partnership in ensuring the safety and security of Agusan del Norte.
“Rest assured that we remain steadfast in our commitment to fulfill our mandate, which is to protect the people and secure the province of Agusan del Norte,” Lt. Col. Gargar further stated.
He added that the recent encounter is a testament to our unwavering dedication to maintaining peace and order in the region.
“We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety and peace of the areas under our jurisdiction,” said Lt. Col. Gargar.
This operation marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to combat insurgency in the region, highlighting the effectiveness of military operations in conjunction with community support in addressing security threats and ensuring the welfare of the populace.
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