Arson attempt foiled

Commanding officer says Lumads helped in thwarting suspected communist rebels

GOVERNMENT soldiers have foiled the attempt of suspected communist rebels to burn down the equipment of a construction company in Bukidnon, over the weekend.

In a statement, the military said they receive reports from the community that members of the New People’s Army (NPA) have threatened to scorch the equipment owned by Ulticon Builders Incorporated in Cabanglasan, Bukidnon.

However, the plans were thwarted after troops from the 8th Infantry Battalion clashed with at least five communist insurgents at Sitio Miaray, Barangay Mandahican.

The military said the Maoist guerillas withdrew which led to the recovery of high powered guns including a carbine and garand rifle with ammunition.

No casualties on the government side during the brief gun battle.

The government troops remain in the area to conduct combat patrol.

“The success of our operation depends on two things. One of which is the unquestionable dedication of our soldiers, called to serve and protect the nation. Another factor is the information on the presence and whereabouts of the enemy coming from the Lumad themselves,” Lieutenant Colonel Ronald Illana, commanding officer of the 8IB, said.

“With the efforts made by the tribal leaders in the area to report the location and activity of the enemy, they are entitled for remuneration for their contribution in line with President Rodrigo Duterte’s proclamation encouraging Lumad to work hand-in-hand with the government to defend themselves and stand up for their right against oppression, persecution and abuses perpetrated by the CPP-NPA terrorists and by other threat groups,” he added.

He said the office of the president has allocated funds as financial assistance to the indigenous people who would aid the government in eradicating the NPA or other threat groups in defense of their tribal community.