Army encounters NPA rebels, seizes claymore mines and other war materials in hinterland village of Ormoc City

By 19th Infantry Battalion, 8ID PA
June 20, 2014

KANANGA, Leyte – Troops under Army’s 19th Infantry Battalion encountered New People’s Army rebels around 2:05 p.m. on June 17, 2014 at So. Nabunturan, Brgy. Patag, Ormoc City.

Lt. Col. Nedy C Espulgar, commanding officer of 19IB, said his troops were on to confirm reports previously tipped by civilians regarding presence of armed group roaming aforesaid hinterland village, when fired upon by undetermined number of NPA rebels.

The 30 minute firefight caused the rebels to withdraw from their position which was discovered to be an NPA encampment which can accommodate around 15 to 20 persons.

Recovered from the encounter site were three (3) unexploded claymore mines, magazines with ammunitions and back packs with personal belongings and subversive documents.

Espulgar furthered, his men were in advantage position during the firefight and managed to maneuver despite the difficult terrain. Withdrawing enemies were unable to inflict casualties against government forces. Rebels neither suffered casualties, but eye witnesses said that some of the fleeing rebels were severely wounded.

In an interview with Roberto Dejon of Leyteño Peryodiko, Espulgar said there will be no let-up in its support to the development programs it has introduced in the hinterland barangays of Ormoc, despite the Tuesday incident.

On the other hand, he is calling on the NPA rebels to surrender, take advantage of the government programs and return to the mainstream society.

“We will pursue with our development efforts, especially in our advocacy on Land Bank’s sustainable integrated natural and organic mini farm program. But our troops are always ready should similar eventuality arises”, Espulgar stressed.