A structure in an abandoned camp discovered by soldiers in Bay-ang village in San Jorge, Samar. (Photo courtersy of Philippine Army)
TACLOBAN CITY -- The Philippine Army has lauded residents of San Jorge, Samar for providing information that led to the discovery of a New People's Army (NPA) camp.
In a statement issued Thursday, Philippine Army 8th Infantry Division commander, Major Gen. Raul Farnacio, said residents of upland Bay-ang village disclosed to troops the location of an abandoned camp of armed rebels.
Soldiers were in the area Monday afternoon to hunt down fleeing heavily-armed NPA members, who engaged them in a gun battle on Saturday. Nine soldiers were slightly wounded during the firefight.
Soldiers found four multi-purpose halls, one big mess hall, one classroom with medical facilities, one training ground, four caves with one supply room, toilets, five kitchens, 13 posts, laminated sacks, one C-type claymore mine, oil container with gas, 122 bunkers, two generators, two M16 magazines, one .45-caliber magazine, assorted wires, 10 pieces of water containers, one command switch for an explosive device, assorted light bulbs, and subversive documents.
"This captured enemy encampment is a big blow to the NPA and on their plan to conduct atrocities in the region. It bespeaks of our relentless efforts in internal security operations and in safeguarding the remote communities that are often abused and exploited by communist rebels," Farnacio said.
He asked residents to continue their cooperation with the military in tracking down the rebels.
The military official urged the rebels to lay down their arms, live a normal and peaceful life with their families, and avail of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program offered by the government. (PNA)
