TWO communist New People’s Army rebels died
in a clash with Army soldiers in Kibawe, Bukidnon Tuesday
morning, a day before a truce goes into effect.
Army spokesman Lt. Col. Romeo Brawner said
troops from the 29th Infantry Battalion were on security patrol
at the vicinity of Salakagang in Barangay Magsaysay around 3:25
a.m. when they caught up with at least 25 rebels.
Brawner said the rebels, who belong to the
Front Committee 6 of the North Central Mindanao Regional
Committee, clashed with the soldiers for at least 30 minutes
before withdrawing. "Today is the last day of the offensive
operations so we are maximizing the conduct of our operations,"
Brawner said.
The government‘s unilateral, two-part
Suspension of Offensive Military Operation will take effect at
the first hour today until Thursday, and then again on Dec. 31
through Jan. 1.
On the other hand, the communist-declared
truce takes effect today until Dec. 26, and from Dec. 31 to Jan.
1. The Communist Party of the Philippines is celebrating its 40
anniversary on Dec. 26.
AFP public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Ernesto Torres said
troops are directed to strictly observe the SOMO but they should
be vigilant against the communists and other lawless elements
who may take
advantage of the truce. "They should not launch offensive
military operations but they should of course increase their
vigilance because it might be taken advantage of by some
sectors, not only the CPP/NPA but other lawless elements. They
might take advantage of the SOMO and launch their own lawless
activities," he said.
Torres, however, said the military expects the communists to
abide by their own truce. "Although we expect the NPAs to
observe their declaration also, we are not letting our guard
down for any contingencies."
Torres said security patrols will continue in order to protect
the public. – Victor Reyes
