BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte – One (1) CPP NPA Terrorist (CNT), left by his comrades, was killed while three (3) high-powered firearms were recovered as operating troops of the 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion clashed with CNTs under PLTN 2, SRSDG SAGAY, SRC 3, NCMRC in the hinterland area of Sitio Calaitan, Brgy. Simbalan, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte on January 16, 2024.
With the information given by the concerned residents regarding the whereabouts of the CNTs, troops of 23IB under the supervision of Lt. Col. Jeffrey P Balingao, Commanding Officer, immediately responded to prevent said terrorist group from conducting extortions and probable atrocities in the area which resulted to an armed encounter.
The firefight lasted for about 10 minutes, after which the CNTs scampered in different directions leaving behind one (1) dead CTG member along with two (2) M16 rifles, one (1) cal .30 carbine, personal belongings, and subversive documents. Heavy bloodstains were observed along their withdrawal route believed to be from the wounded rebels.
In his statement, Lt. Col. Balingao said this encounter was a tactical engagement of the 23IB operating troops against the NPA terrorists in the area. “This operation is part of our relentless effort to end the local communist armed conflict in our Area of Operation. As we gain significant results against these terrorist NPAs, we will continue with our pursuit operations against the fleeing terrorists. With the continuous support of the residents in the area, I am confident that our troops can contain them from conducting further terroristic activities and finally pin them down,” Lt. Col. Balingao added.
Meanwhile, Brigadier General Adonis Ariel G. Orio, Commander of the 402nd (Stingers) Infantry Brigade, highlighted, that the successful security operation of the 23IB was a product of the combined efforts of the troops with former NPA members who surrendered and continuously provided important information about their former comrades’ hideouts.
“This is how sincere we are in our effort to end this communist-driven local insurgency. As long as the people of Agusan del Norte continue to support us in all our peace initiatives, these accomplishments are always possible. Let us altogether end this menace in our society,” Brig. Gen. Orio said.
This proactive and resolute response by the 23IB underscores their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the security and well-being of the Municipality of Buenavista and other areas in its Area of Operation. It serves as a testament to the unwavering dedication of our military forces, who willingly put their lives on the line to maintain peace and order in our communities.
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