Gov’t scores anew in drive vs insurgency

By Ana-Liza Macatangay

PILI, Camarines Sur --- The Philippine National Police (PNP) scored last Tuesday, Nov. 28, another victory in its anti-insurgency campaign with the capture of a communist terrorist group (CTG) member in Masbate province.

“Emok,” a 65-year-old male who belongs to the CTG/CTN Platoon 1, Larangan 2, KP4 under the Rogelio Suson command, also known as “@Ka Manong” command, was arrested by Masbate Police in Barangay Naocondiot, Placer.

Emok’s affiliated group has been actively conducting operations within the 3rd District of Masbate province.

In a press statement, PNP Bicol said Emok was listed in the E-warrant system for violation of RA 11479, otherwise known as “The Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020,” under Criminal Case No. 2023-1090.

The warrant of arrest dated Oct. 17 was issued by RTC Branch 23 in Naga City. No bail was recommended.

This feat is a testimony of the PNP’s commitment to ensuring peace and security of the populace, aligning with the government’s goal and continued effort to counter insurgency in the Bicol region.

In a recent incident on Saturday, Nov.25, military forces from the 9th Infantry Battalion, encountered approximately 15 CTG members in Brgy. Macogon, Labo, Camarines Norte.

A 15-minute exchange of gunfire ensued leading to the withdrawal and escape of CTG members from various locations, leaving assorted firearms and ammunitions at the encounter site.

Items retrieved from the location included an M16 rifle, a Cal. 22 rifle, three long M16 magazines, one short M16 magazine, and one long M14 magazine. Additionally, a cellphone, a backpack containing personal belongings, a 20-meter-long electric wire, a commercial “Baofeng” radio, and subversive documents were abandoned at the encounter site.

The 9IB expressed its appreciation to the community whose tip-off contributed to the recovery of the said firearms.

9th Infantry SPEAR Division and Joint Task Force Bicolandia Commander Major General Adonis Bajao lauded the government troops for their swift response and extended gratitude to the community for their continued support and commitment to achieving lasting peace. (With reports from PNP Bicol,9th ID DPAO, PIA 5/ Camarines Sur)