THE encounter between the military and the communist terrorist group Communist Party of the Philippines, New People’s Army, and National Democratic Front or CPP-NPA-NDF in the Philippine province of Bukidnon on Christmas Day has claimed the lives of over 10 members of the said group.
This was confirmed by 4ID Commander Major General Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II in a press briefing on Tuesday.
“Today just a few minutes ago we were informed by the operating group that they found another dead body doon sa area so it has 10 body that has been found,” according to MGen. Jose Maria Cuerpo II Commander, 4ID, PA.
To recall, on December 1, 2023, the 4th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army received information that the communist terrorist group CPP-NPA-NDF would launch an attack on a construction company in Brgy. Can-ayan in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.
This prompted the military to conduct an operation in the area.
Due to this, the communist terrorist group scattered and moved to different locations.
Undeterred, the military continued its pursuit of them, leading to a series of operations.
And while the operation was ongoing, the 403rd Infantry Brigade received information that on December 21, the group would gather at Sitio Kieto, Barangay Can-ayan, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.
The troops then decided to raid the said area, but the planted bombs around the rebels’ hiding place posed a challenge.
To avoid endangering the military troops, they sought assistance from the Philippine Air Force.
Currently, as the military continues its pursuit of fleeing members of the communist group, the government expects the number of casualties on the rebel side to increase.
Aside from the fatalities, the Philippine Army also recovered various high-caliber firearms and grenades.
Meanwhile, MGen. Cuerpo acknowledged the significant cooperation of civilians in their operations against terrorists.
Despite the success of the operation, the general expressed regret.
