Troopers from the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division figured in an 18-minute gun battle with New People’s Army (NPA) rebels on Sunday (Feb. 16) in Barangay San Jose, Antipolo City, Rizal.
The insurgents fled, leaving behind some firearms, ammunition, explosive components, communication devices, medical supplies, and subversive documents. No casualties were reported on both sides.
21ID commander Maj. Gen. Cerilo Balaoro Jr. cited the operation’s success in disrupting potential threats even as he urged the rebels to abandon their armed struggle.
He encouraged them to return to mainstream society through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), reaffirming the military’s commitment to eradicating insurgency through intensified operations and collaboration with local communities.
“They should take this chance to start anew through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program because we will further intensify our operations and collaboration with local communities and government agencies to eradicate insurgency as soon as possible,” Balaoro said.