Philippine Troops Clash with Communist Rebels, Kill 10 Insurgents

Photo : AP

Philippine troops have dealt a significant blow to the communist insurgency, killing at least 10 suspected guerrillas in a clash in a remote northern area. The skirmish, which occurred near a village in Pantabangan town, Nueva Ecija province, ensued when army forces intercepted about 20 New People's Army (NPA) guerrillas retreating from a previous engagement. Among the casualties were three rebel commanders, with 13 rifles and a pistol recovered from the site.

Major Jimson Masangkay, regional army spokesperson, confirmed that troops were in pursuit of approximately 10 other guerrillas who withdrew from the area following the firefight. Brigadier General Norwin Joseph Pasamonte, commander of an army infantry brigade, expressed both commendation for the troops' actions and regret over the loss of rebel lives. He reiterated the government's call for insurgents to surrender and reintegrate into society.

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Nueva Ecija, historically known for its rice production, was once a stronghold of communist insurgency, but now hosts fewer than 50 Maoist rebels, according to Masangkay. Despite ongoing efforts to revive peace talks, initiated last November in Oslo, actual negotiations have yet to resume under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The insurgency, spanning decades and regarded as one of Asia's longest, has seen setbacks due to internal factionalism, surrenders, and governmental military operations.

Approximately 1,000 communist fighters remain active, Philippine officials report, despite intermittent peace negotiations brokered by Norway collapsing under former President Rodrigo Duterte. Both sides have accused each other of perpetrating deadly attacks, perpetuating the cycle of conflict despite sporadic attempts at reconciliation.

June 28, 2024 4:19 p.m. 461

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