ILOILO City – An alleged member of the communist terrorist group (CTG) was killed in an encounter with troops of the Philippine Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion (61IB) in Sitio Mapa, Barangay Culyat, Valderrama, Antique on Saturday, August 24.
Lieutenant Colonel J-Jay Javines, spokesperson for the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID), said the fatality identified as John Paul “Ronron” Capio, 36, of Barangay Boloc, Tubungan, Iloilo, was the squad leader of SQD3, Regional Headquarters, Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay of the New People’s Army.
Javines said a five-minute firefight ensued between the 61IB troops and around seven rebels around 9 a.m., resulting in Capio’s death.
His companions fled after the encounter.
The government troops recovered four M16 and one M14 rifles, 15 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, 43 5.56mm live ammunition, and two long magazines of M16 rifle.
Major General Marion Sison, 3ID commander, said the death of the rebel was a stern reminder that the path of armed struggle leads only to misery and suffering.
He urged those still engaged in the armed movement to reconsider their choices and return to society and emphasized the government’s readiness to assist those who choose to surrender and reintegrate into mainstream society.
“We call on all remaining members of the CTG to lay down their arms and embrace the government’s programs aimed at helping you start anew. The doors are open, and the government is here to support you in rebuilding your lives away from violence,” Sison said.
Sison also highlighted the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program, which offers various forms of assistance to former rebels, including financial aid, livelihood support, and other reintegration services./PN
