CAMP SANG-AN, Zamboanga del Sur – Government forces under the Army’s 103rd Infantry Brigade and Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN engaged remnants of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) in Amai Manabilang, Lanao del Sur on August 23, resulting in the death of one armed rebel and the recovery of a high-powered firearm.
According to military reports, troops from the 16th Scout Ranger Company clashed with members of Platun Uno, Sub-Regional Committee 5 (SRC-5) of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee, in Barangay Bandara Ingod. After several minutes of firefight, soldiers recovered an M16 rifle from the slain insurgent. No casualties were reported on the government side.
Pursuit and clearing operations continue in the area, with nearby military units placed on alert to block possible escape routes of the armed group.
The latest encounter came a day after government forces also clashed with SRC-5 members in Barangay Pagonayan, Amai Manabilang. Later that night, one female regular member of the unit surrendered to security forces in Bukidnon, citing exhaustion and hardships caused by continuous military pressure.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) noted that the series of clashes marks the ninth armed engagement against SRC-5 this year, which has so far resulted in the surrender of seven members and further weakened the group’s operational strength.
Brig. Gen. Billy O. Dela Rosa, Commander of the 103rd Infantry “Haribon” Brigade, said sustained operations and cooperation from communities have placed SRC-5 on the verge of collapse.
“With our continued operations and the support of the people, we are close to accomplishing our mission of totally defeating SRC-5,” he said.
Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., Commander of Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN, also commended the efforts of soldiers and local stakeholders. He emphasized that the group’s nearing defeat could pave the way for stronger peace and development initiatives in Lanao del Sur and adjacent provinces.
The 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division assured that it will sustain its campaign against remaining NPA units while strengthening partnerships with local governments for peacebuilding and community development programs.