2 rebels killed, 12 guns seized in CamSur clash
By Connie Calipay
Two New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were killed while 12 high-powered firearms were seized after a firefight with government forces in Barangay Bongalon, Sagñay, Camarines Sur on Monday, July 19.
Capt. John Paul Belleza, 9th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office chief, said elements of the 83rd Infantry Battalion (83IB) together with the Philippine National Police (PNP) operatives encountered at least 20 NPA rebels.
“Intense firefight between the two forces broke out and lasted for 30 minutes before the enemies left in haste. Two communist NPA terrorists (CNTs) were killed while 12 high-powered firearms comprised of eight M16, two M14, and two M653 rifles, ammunition, magazines, and personal belongings were seized from the encounter site,” Belleza said in a statement.
REBELS’ GUNS. The 12 high-powered firearms recovered after a clash between the New People’s Army (NPA) and government troops in Barangay Bongalon, Sagñay, Camarines Sur on July 19, 2021. Maj. Gen. Henry Robinson Jr., commander of Joint Task Force Bicolandia, lauded the troops for landing another big blow on the communist terrorist group’s already waning capability both in firepower and manpower. (Photo courtesy of 9th Infantry Division, PA)
Lt. Col. Clark Dalumbar, commander of the 83rd Infantry Battalion, said troops received a report from some residents about the rebels trying to recruit new members, which prompted them to scour the area.
We are thankful to the residents of Sagñay who gave us the information. Because of this, we were able to stop the rebels from deceiving innocent civilians and the youth. We hope that you will continue to cooperate with us in stopping the terrorism of the NPA, Dalumbar said.
Col. Jaime Abawag Jr., commander of the 902nd Infantry Brigade, warned the rebels that with the relentless joint operations of the Army and PNP, they are left with no other choice but to surrender.
We don’t want another life to be wasted, but if you will not surrender, death is waiting for you. Your world is becoming smaller because the people are reporting your presence to the authorities. If you don’t want your life to be wasted, return to the fold of the government, which will help you start a new life), Abawag said.
Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Jonnel Estomo, regional director of Police Regional Office 5, said the interoperability of the army and police plays a significant role in sustaining the gains against the NPA.
Our police force is with our army in fighting against the terrorists to protect the lives of the public, he said.
Maj. Gen. Henry Robinson Jr., commander of Joint Task Force (JTF) Bicolandia, lauded the troops for landing another big blow on the NPA’s already waning capability both in firepower and manpower.
Last Feb. 1, the 83IB also launched a successful operation against the NPA in Barangay Toytoy, Garchitorena, Camarines Sur where four rebels were killed while 10 high-powered firearms were seized.