14IB encounters anew recovers M16 rifle

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan City, Samar – The Army’s 14^th Infantry Battalion’s new clash against the terrorist New People’s Army (NPA) in the boundary of Brgys. Magsaysay and Roxas both of Mac Arthur, Eastern Samar around 5:45 this morning left one (1) killed on the enemy and a recovered one (1) M16 rifle.

Report reaching to this headquarters disclosed that while the troops of 1^st Lieutenant Mario Josue, Jr., commanding officer of 14IB’s Alfa Company was conducting a community works, received a text message from an undisclosed sender that some armed members of local terrorist group will be conducting extortion activities in the nearby barangays.

Responding to the report, 1Lt Josue allegedly proceeded to the mentioned barangays to provide security.

When troops reached the boundary of Brgys Magsaysay and Roxas, some five (5) armed men who believed to be members of SSk1, SECCOM NE, ESPPC of the Eastern Vizayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) under Gavino Guarino alias Mael crossed their way that immediately resulted to a firefight.

Exchange of fire lasted for 30 minutes that ensued to the recovery of one (1) M16 rifle, three (3) magazines with live ammos and the killing of one (1) terrorist while wounding several others.

No reported hurt in the government troops.

Meanwhile, Major General Arthur I Tabaquero, commander of 8ID expressed his appreciation for the continuous show of concern and support being tendered by the local folks.

“The successful feat of the Army in our province can be attributed to the full support of the civilians. While I congratulate the troops for the successful performance of their duty, may I also congratulate our civilians who are one way or another help accomplish our mission,” Major General Tabaquero added.

“This is not just an accomplishment of the 8ID. This is also an accomplishment of a united mind and body of all concerned individuals, agency and stakeholders who are pursuing peace and development for the province”, the good General concluded.

Colonel Jaime Hidalgo, commanding officer of 14IB continued their directed his troops to conduct pursuit operation to track down the fleeing terrorist. He is also optimistic that with the support of the civilians, the remnants of the defunct terrorist group in his area will soon be eliminated. #JGM#