Army on guard for possible NPA retaliation after 10 rebels killed in Bukidnon encounter

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Army is on guard for possible retaliation by the Maoist New People’s Army after the killing of ten alleged rebels during an encounter in Bukidnon.

The Army’s 4th Infantry Division (4ID) said 10 NPA fighters were killed in the Malaybalay City encounter on Monday, Dec. 25.

“We are prepared [for retaliations],” said Major General Jose Maria Cuerpo in a press briefing in 4ID headquarters in Cagayan de Oro City.

“My instruction to brigade commanders and combat units is to always be vigilant,” Cuerpo said. “Even if we are celebrating Christmas season this month doesn’t mean we have to lower our guards.”

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Initially, the 4ID reported nine killed fighters while eight high-powered firearms were seized in the encounter.

However, Cuerpo said another body was recovered in the encounter site, bringing the total number of fatalities to 10.

These fatalities remained unidentified.

This encounter occurred amid the two-day unilateral ceasefire declared by the Communist Party of the Philippines, which the military did not recognize.