TACLOBAN CITY –– An alleged rebel was arrested by government forces during an encounter with the New People’s Army in Borongan City, Eastern Samar on Sunday, Jan. 17.
Bienvenido Abagancia, 65, was reportedly left behind by other rebels during the 30-minute firefight.
The government troops recovered four improvised explosive devices, an improvised 7.62-mm rifle, a caliber .38 revolver, an M14 magazine, three backpacks containing anti-government documents, and personal belongings.
Lt. Col. Oliver Alvior, commanding Officer of 78th Infantry Battalion, lauded the troops for their successful operation and extended his gratitude to the residents for saving the lives of the soldiers.
“Your Philippine Army will continue to use its military might against the armed group that threatens the peace and stability of Eastern Samar,” he said.
Alvior appealed to members of the armed group to return to the folds of the law.