Camp Elias Angeles, headquarters of the Philippine Army in Pili, Camarines Sur (File photo)
LEGAZPI CITY – Several high-powered firearms of the New People's Army (NPA) were recovered after an encounter with government troops in Sorsogon province on Wednesday.
A social media post of the Philippine Army's 9th Infantry Division (9ID) on Thursday said the encounter occurred in the town of Pilar.
Among the weapons recovered were two M16 rifles, two anti-personnel mines, and a Molotov bomb, as well as 10 cellphones, subversive documents, and the personal belongings of the rebels.
Based on the report, the authorities received information on the alleged presence of armed men between Barangay San Vicente Grande in Daraga, Albay and the villages of Catamlangan and Pinagsalog in Pilar, which the soldiers immediately verified, resulting in a 15-minute exchange of fire.
"No injured or dead troops were recorded in the said incident while the terrorists' part is still being investigated due to traces of blood in the area," the post read.
Maj. Gen. Adonis Bajao, commander of the 9ID and Joint Task Force Bicolandia, once again called on the communist group members to surrender and lead new lives.
“Hinihikayat ko po ang mga miyembro ng CTG (communist terrorist group) na sumuko na lamang at maging bahagi ng pagbabago ng ating komunidad tungo sa tunay na kapayapaan. Katatapos lamang po ng ating paggunita sa National Bible Day nitong Lunes. Nawa’y sa pamamagitan nito ay mabuksan na rin ang inyong mga puso’t isipan upang baguhin na ang inyong mga pananaw sa buhay (I encourage the members of the CTG to just give up and be part of the transformation of our community towards real peace. We have just finished commemorating National Bible Day this Monday. Through this, may your hearts and minds be opened to change your views on life)," Bajao said. (PNA)
