Military Launches Offensives Against NPA Rebels on CPP Anniversary Eve

The military conducted offensives against New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, on the eve of the 55th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

Three hours after the communist rebels declared a unilateral ceasefire from Christmas Day to the CPP anniversary day, the military launched the offensive.

Brigadier General Michelle Anayron, commander of the Army’s 403rd Infantry Brigade, reported finding the body of a male in Sitio Kiito, Barangay Can-ayan, Malaybalay City, bringing the death toll to 10 NPA rebels. The military initially reported nine killed guerillas on Christmas Day.

During clearing operations in Sitio Kiito, troops discovered at least six high-powered firearms and other war materials.

Major General Jose Maria Cuerpo II, commander of the 4th Infantry Division, stated that, in the absence of orders to reciprocate the ceasefire, the military proceeded with the offensive, pursuing rebels in at least three villages in Malaybalay City.

The military acted on information indicating that rebels instructed villagers to prepare food for anticipated visitors and supporters during the CPP anniversary celebration.

Employing drones to triangulate the rebels’ position in Sitio Kiito and minimize civilian casualties, the military used Philippine Air Force Super Tucano light attack aircraft and Army truck-mounted howitzers to target the rebel encampment.

Brigadier General Anayron noted the use of newly acquired military assets to breach the heavily mined rebel camp in Sitio Kiito. Truck-mounted 155-millimeter howitzers inside Camp Bahian in Malaybalay City, approximately 10 kilometers away, were used to target the rebel position.

CPP spokesperson Marco Valbuena, in emails to reporters, stated they were still verifying reports about the military offensives in Malaybalay.

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