NPA Terrorist Killed in Batangas Clash

CAMP CAPINPIN, Rizal – An armed encounter between the Philippine Army’s 2nd Infantry Division (2ID) and members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Lobo, Batangas, on Wednesday, December 4, resulted in the death of one NPA terrorist.

According to reports from the 202nd Infantry Brigade, troops from the 59th Infantry Battalion were conducting routine security operations in Barangay Balibago when the armed rebels opened fire. This led to a 20-minute firefight before the NPA members fled the scene.

The deceased terrorist was identified as Rey Delos Santos, who also used the aliases Japeth, Roy, and Ren. One soldier sustained a minor injury during the clash. A former rebel assisting the government’s peace efforts noted that Delos Santos’ death further weakens the NPA’s presence in Batangas.

Military personnel recovered two high-powered firearms, two anti-personnel mines, and a magazine from the encounter site.

Maj. Gen. Cerilo Balaoro Jr. of the 2ID emphasized the Army’s commitment to peace and security, stating, “While we do not celebrate the loss of life, we have a duty to protect our people and uphold the law.” He called on remaining NPA members to surrender and take advantage of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which offers them a chance to reintegrate into society and contribute to national peace and development.

Maj. Gen. Balaoro also reaffirmed the Army’s dedication to eradicating the threats posed by the NPA in Southern Tagalog and neighboring regions, with support from local communities and other government agencies.