CALAMBA, Misamis Occidental (PIA)--A clash between the 10th Infantry Battalion and the "Guerilla Front Sendong" of the New People's Army erupted, March 24, in the remote area of Calamba in Misamis Occidental.

Task Unit "Eradicator," the main force assigned to dismantle the remaining guerilla front of the Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee of the NPA, was reinforced by various infantry battalions to form a united task unit and fortify the ongoing military campaign in the province.

As part of the NPA anniversary, the Guerilla Front Sendong wanted to use violence, propaganda, and extortion campaigns in the hinter barangays of Misamis Occidental. However, residents reported that armed people were in the area, which stopped the Guerilla Front Sendong's plans.

The task unit quickly mobilized its troops, resulting in a 30-minute armed encounter. The government suffered no casualties, but the NPAs were compelled to retreat, leaving behind an AK-47 rifle, 12 assorted magazines, hundreds of assorted ammunitions, three bandoliers, medical supplies, food supplies, subversive documents, and other personal belongings.

10th Infantry Battalion Commanding Officer LTC Jose Andre Monje, INF (GSC) PA, said blood stains at the site showed that several members of the Guerilla Front Sendong were hurt.

The unit sent in more troops to chase down the fleeing enemies and put more troops in the community areas to protect the people who lived there.

Meanwhile, COL Elmer B. Superior, INF (GSC) PA, the 102nd brigade commander, urged the troops to remain focused on their mission and use all available resources to achieve total victory in their campaign against the CTGs in the Zamboanga Peninsula.

Commander of JTF ZAMPELAN PA MGEN Antonio Nafarrete asked the remaining members of GF SENDONG to turn themselves in. The military promised to help and care for the wounded through the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC).

He also asked the people of the province to stay alert and work with the soldiers to bring about a lasting peace. This operation is in response to the provincial government of Misamis Occidental's campaign to declare an insurgency-free province.

The 10IB is committed to its mission to disband the armed group and pave the way for development in Misamis Occidental. (10thIB/PIA-10/Misamis Occidental)