A total of three members of the New People’s Army were killed in an encounter over the weekend in Lanao del Sur.
According to Major Orlando Ayllon, acting chief of the AFP’s Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) Public Information Office, the encounter followed the Decisive Military Operations (DMOs) conducted by the troops of Joint Task Force (JTF) ZamPeLan.
“We would like to underline the significant role of JTF ZamPeLan in neutralizing this threat group. We anticipate fruitful operations in the months to come, noting the continuous efforts and developments made to eliminate threats in our Area of Responsibility,” said Lt. Gen. William Gonzales, Commander of WestMinCom.
The troops encountered approximately six Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) – New People’s Army (NPA) Terrorists (CNTs) at Sitio Bagong Silang, Barangay Malna, Kapai, Lanao del Sur, at 11:45 p.m. on September 5, 2024.
These CNTs were believed to be part of the Dispatch Team of Sub-Regional Committee 5 (SRC-5) under the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC), led by individuals known as alias Drags/Pio/Mobaks.
The exchange of gunfire lasted for about 15 minutes, resulting in the deaths of three rebels: Rochie Singaman, alias Mogul/Aidan/Jan-Jan, PSR Listed #16; Wendy Luis, alias Cris/Kit/Haber, PSR Listed #31; and Hernan Gainalang, alias Ren/Jam/Asero/Jamer, PSR Listed #32.
Additionally, four high-powered firearms were confiscated, including two M16 rifles, one M653 rifle, and one M14 rifle.
Meanwhile, the operating troops reported no casualties on their side.
As of writing, government troops are still pursuing the terrorist group while other military units have cordoned off the area to restrict the movement of the fleeing terrorists.
