AT LEAST 92 communist rebels and their supporters have been neutralized by the military this month, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
AFP spokesperson Col. Margareth Padilla said 85 insurgents surrendered, five were arrested, and two were killed in military operations.
A total of 56 firearms and 12 anti-personnel mines were also confiscated, while six encampments were overtaken by the troops since Jan. 1.
The AFP also said a Daulah Islamiyah-Maute Group (DI-MG) member was killed during a recent encounter with government troops in Barangay Kalangan, Piagapo, Lanao del Sur.
The operations, conducted by the Army’s 8th Scout Ranger Company and 44th Infantry
Battalion, resulted in a 30-minute exchange of gunfire, leaving one soldier wounded. Several firearms, ammunition, and explosive materials were seized following the clash.
“The AFP leadership commended the troops’ relentless efforts and urged remaining militants to surrender and embrace government reintegration programs.” Padilla said.