overnment troops captured one member of the New People’s Army (NPA) during ongoing operations coinciding with the group’s anniversary in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro on Sunday, March 29.
Initial reports from the 203rd Infantry (Bantay Kapayapaan) Brigade said troops from the 68th Infantry (Kaagapay) Battalion encountered about 15 NPA members while conducting pursuit operations at Sitio Salafay in Barangay Monteclaro.
The encounter resulted in a firefight lasting approximately 20 minutes before the armed group fled the area.
Troops recovered one M16 rifle, a hand grenade, and improvised explosive device (IED) components from the encounter site.
The engagement followed an earlier firefight on March 24 in the same barangay involving the same unit. During that earlier clash, troops also recovered a firearm and discovered bloodstains indicating possible enemy casualties.
Government forces sustained casualties during the latest encounter. First Lieutenant Dean Oyando was killed in action while leading his troops in pursuit of the fleeing armed group. Two other soldiers were wounded, with one transported to the AFP Medical Center for further medical treatment.
Colonel Michael Aquino, chief of the 2nd Division Public Affairs Office, said sustained military operations continue to weaken the armed group’s capability in the area.
Aquino also paid tribute to Oyando, honoring the fallen officer’s courage and sacrifice while leading troops during the operation.
He said the development disrupted the group’s plans as it marked its anniversary, noting that intensified operations continue to reduce the group’s ability to operate.
Authorities urged the public to remain vigilant and coordinate with local authorities in reporting any information that may support ongoing operations.
Operations remain ongoing as troops continue pursuit of fleeing
