PLACER, Surigao del Norte— The soldiers and Communist Terrorist Group clash anew in Sitio Barubangkaw, Barangay Taganito, Claver, Surigao del Norte, Thursday morning, February 25.
Based on the report, the encounter ensued between operating troops of 30th Infantry (Fight On) Battalion and members of SYPC2, GF16 under a certain @Jelong when the soldiers responded to the reports about the presence of the said armed group in the area.
The said firefight lasted for about 1O minutes and resulted to the seizure of one M14 rifle, assorted magazines, ammunitions, personnel belongings, hammocks and assorted medicines. No casualty recorded on both sides while pursuit operation is still on going.
According to Lt. Col. Charles Ryan G. Callanta, Commanding Officer of 30IB, they immediately launched operation when they received the information regarding the whereabouts of the CTG.
“We are determined to go after the said group because we want to ensure the safety and security of locals specifically the Indigenous People (IP). The initial information revealed that the communist terrorists were monitored conducting foraging in the area targeting the IP communities”, the Battalion Commander said.
Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. George L Banzon, Commander of 901st Infantry (Fight’Em) Brigade, expressed his sincerest thanks to the local residents who gave their full trust and untiringly support the soldiers by giving timely information that led to the successful operation.
“As we always say, the information coming from the localities are very vital. The outcome in the recent engagement clearly manifests that we can promptly act on the arising situation if the community will give their cooperation. Our main objective is to prevent this armed group from entering the community and disrupting the lives of the people”, he said
On the other hand, Brig. Gen. Banzon denounced the CTG for “pestering” the IP communities in the area. He said that it was clear violation and great disrespect on the rights and culture of the indigenous people. Further, he said that the accomplishment was a victory for the people who wanted to be free from the influence of the communist terrorists and live without the intimidation and fear.
He also gave assurance that the operating troops will continue to be relentless in conducting security operations so that the communities will be safeguarded from the threat of the CTG who capitalizes violence to pursue their agenda.
