By Jason De Asis
DINGALAN, Aurora – A timely report from a concerned citizen sparked a brief firefight between government forces and remnants of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) in Barangay Ibona, Dingalan, Aurora on Thursday afternoon.
The 703rd Infantry Brigade (703IB) “Agila” Brigade reported on Friday that its troops engaged about 10 members of the dismantled Komiteng Rehiyon Gitnang Luzon.
There was no military casualty at the end of the 10-minute firefight. Enemy losses remained unconfirmed as of posting.
After the clash, soldiers recovered possible NPA belongings, like backpacks, bandoliers, ammunition, a hand grenade and communication equipment.
“This encounter showed that the community stands firm against the remnants of the CTG (communist terrorist group). Their support makes our job possible,” Brig. Gen. Eugenio Julio Osias IV, 703IB commander, said in a statement.
He also urged the remaining NPA members to surrender and reintegrate into society, while appealing to local government officials to sustain their collaboration with security forces.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines repeatedly emphasizes that community involvement is a decisive factor in the counterinsurgency campaign. (PNA)
