Army encounters NPA in Eastern Samar, recovered M16 rifle and NPA body count

By DPAO, 8ID PA
July 29, 2015

CAMP GENERAL VICENTE LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – Army troops operating in Eastern Samar Province encountered NPA members in a remote area of Sitio Sumlot, Barangay Magtino, Llorente, Eastern Samar at about 12:05 P.M. on July 24, 2015.

According to Lt. Col. Peter P. Burgonio, Commanding Officer of the 14th Infantry (Avenger) Battalion, his troops were conducting Peace and Security Operations in the outskirts of barangay Magtino when they chanced upon seven (7) NPA rebels which resulted to a 15 minute encounter.

The brief encounter resulted to the recovery of one (1) M16 rifle and one (1) NPA body count. In addition, the troops also recovered one (1) bandoleer, three (3) camel backpacks containing sim cards, memory cards and personal belongings from the fleeing NPAs. There was no reported casualty on the government side.

MGEN Jet B. Velarmino AFP 8ID Commander, expressed his appreciation to the operating troops of the 14IB for their dedication and commitment in safeguarding the communities against the rebels which resulted to a commendable accomplishment.

Further, he reiterated the government’s call for non-violence, for the NPA rebels to return to the mainstream society and take advantage of the government’s reconciliation programs.