TROOPS RECOVER FIREARMS AFTER NPA ENCOUNTER

Peace volunteers, local officials, and the residents contribute in the military’s successful pursuit operations.

Davao oriental – Government troops from the 67th Infantry Battalion have recovered three high-powered firearms, documents, and personal belongings from New People's Army rebels following an encounter last August 28 at Sitio Batiano, Barangay San Pedro in Caraga town.

The encounter happened at 1:45 in the morning when government troops came across the armed rebels resulting in an encounter said 67th IB Commander Lt. Col. Jake Thaddeus Obligado.

He said that there was no casualty on the side of the government, adding that government troops have been conducting its pursuit operations since August 28.

Lt. Col. Obligado listed the results of the military operations since August 19. These include the rescue of Cpl. Johannes Parreño of the 28th Infantry Battalion who escaped from his captors after being abducted on June 10 by members of the armed NPA rebels.

One NPA rebel was captured while another one has been killed. Six high-powered firearms have also been recovered as well as documents which the government can use for intelligence, listed Lt. Col. Obligado.

Lt. Col. Obligado added that the local officials, peace volunteers, and the residents have been a big help in the military's successful operations. He said the military is continuously pursuing the armed group.

“Kami po ay nagpapasalamat sa inyong suporta at panalangin. Nawa'y patuloy po tayong manalangin at magtulong-tulong para sa patuloy na tagumpay na ating makakamtan para sa tunay na pangmatagalang kapayapaan at kaunlaran sa Davao Oriental. Mabuhay po tayong lahat! (We thank everyone's support and prayers. Let's continue to pray and help each other for the continuous success of our efforts in achieving lasting peace and development in Davao Oriental),” he said in a statement.