The slain rebel has not yet been identified as of this report. Captured during the firefight that lasted for about 10 minutes are the following: one AK47 rifle, one M14 rifle, one improvised explosive device, one roll of detonating cord, two blasting caps, and other various war paraphernalia.
The clash that transpired between the government forces and the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) was the aftermath of reports from concerned citizens in the vicinity of Barangay Kalasungay stating that fully armed men whom they suspected as NPA rebels were foraging and extorting money from the neighborhood of their small community in Sitio Malinao.
It can be recalled that the 403rd Infantry Brigade launched intensified focus military operations in the Saldab complex at the start of the year, which resulted in a series of encounters and the discovery of an arms cache that led to the capture of two M16 rifles, two AK47 rifles, improvised explosive devices, subversive documents, and other war materials.
The 8th Infantry Battalion remains grateful for the proactive actions undertaken by the residents and the local government unit to pre-empt further havoc that the rebels may bring to their peace-loving community.
Meanwhile, in pursuing the gains of the NTF-ELCAC, the 403rd Infantry (Peacemaker) Brigade, 4th Infantry "Diamond" Division, along with other stakeholders, will continue to strive for the pursuit of genuine peace and security within the areas of the Province of Bukidnon. (Romeo Braceros Jr.)