THREE suspected communist rebels were reported were killed in a series of clashes with the 4th Scout Ranger Battalion in Barangay San Jose, Mapanas, Northern Samar on Sunday, March 16.
The troops launched the operations following reports of armed men engaging in extortion activities in the hinterland communities.
The encounters also resulted in the seizure of multiple firearms, including M14 and M16 rifles, ammunition, and anti-personnel mines.
Military officials attributed the success of the operations to civilian cooperation, and reaffirmed their commitment to peace, urging the New People’s Army holdouts to surrender and avail of government reintegration programs.