The Army’s 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division neutralized 30 members of the New People’s Army and seized 33 firearms from them in September, it reported on Monday, October 2.
Of the 30 neutralized rebels, 16 were killed in encounters, 12 surrendered to government forces, and two were apprehended, a 3ID press statement said.
Four of the slain NPAs met their fate in skirmishes in Iloilo province while six each died in Bohol and Negros clashes, it added.
Maj. Gen. Marion Sison, 3ID commander, said that the success of neutralizing rebels last month was due to their anti-insurgency campaign in collaboration with government forces, local government units, and multi-stakeholders of Western and Central Visayas.
“The overwhelming backing from the community, coupled with the voluntary surrender of NPAs to government forces, is a compelling testament to the dwindling support for the communist terrorist organization and its looming downfall,” he said.
Meanwhile, the 3ID also welcomed 13 newly assigned officers and lauded their combat accomplishments during the flag-raising ceremony held at Camp Macario B Peralta Jr., Jamindan, Capiz, on Monday.*