CLAVERIA, Misamis Oriental- Two firearms were seized during a clash between the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) and troops under 58th Infantry Dimalulupig Battalion at Sitio Langguyod, Brgy Libertad, Gingoog City, June 29, 2021.
The firefight lasted for about 15 minutes and troops seized one carbine and one M16 rifle, as well as subversive documents.
The said encounter occurred at around 04:45 in the afternoon in the hinterlands of Gingoog’s Barangay Libertad, as troops responded to the reports of concerned civilians about the presence of armed rebels in their community attempting to extort food and threaten people.
“The encounter is a result of the continuous and active efforts to impede enemy activities,” stated Lt. Col. Ricky L Canatoy, Commanding Officer of the 58th Infantry Battalion. We urge the remaining CTG members to lay down their arms and live a peaceful and normal life, avoiding unnecessary death. The Army, on the other hand, will not hesitate to use force against peacebreakers and other threat groups who will continue to utilize terrorism.”
Lt. Col. Canatoy also expressed his appreciation to the locals for their cooperation with the government. “The local population’s active engagement is critical in the government’s campaign to stop the local communist armed conflict. From providing timely and accurate information about the NPA’s presence in the community to providing direct services to the community, everything is done with the community in mind.”
