SIX New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were killed in a firefight with government troops in Candoni town in Negros Occidental early morning yesterday.
The Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (ID) said soldiers also recovered eight high-powered firearms after the encounter which broke out at 3:43 a.m. in Barangay Gatuslao.
Troops from the Army’s 47th and 15th infantry battalions conducted a combat operation in the area after receiving information from residents about the presence of the rebels in their community.
After a 40-minute firefight, troops recovered the remains of the six rebels at the encounter area, along with five M16 rifles, two AK-47 rifles and an M653 rifle.
No one was reported killed or injured on the government side.
“Our fight against the remnants of the CTG (communist terrorist group) in Negros is an ongoing effort. This successful encounter reaffirms our commitment to denying this terrorist group the space and opportunity to resurge,” said 3rd ID commander Maj. Gen. Marion Sison.
The military said the South West Front of the NPA, where the rebels were connected, had been dismantled and what was left of the group were “remnants.”
Sison urged the rebels in the region to surrender to avoid the fate suffered by their comrades.
“We will not tire of urging you to abandon this path of armed struggle. It brings only death and suffering. There is still time to choose a peaceful way where you can have a fresh start,” said Sison.
“Lay down your arms and return to the fold of the law. Avoid the fate your comrades have met. Your families, communities, and government are waiting to welcome you back and support you as you build a new life,” added Sison.
