Governor Edwin Ongchuan, chair of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF ELCAC), lauded the 803rd Infantry Brigade Philippine Army through its 43rd Infantry Battalion, for the successful combat against communist terrorist groups (CTGs) in Brgy. Santander, Bobon yesterday morning, April 30, 2023 where government forces had an encounter against about 40 CTGs with assorted high-powered firearms.
Upon clearing of the encounter site, 7 CTGs belonging to the Sub-Regional Guerilla Unit (SRGU) of the Sub-Regional Committee Emporium, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVPRC) were found killed. Four (4) firearms, Improvised Explosive Device (IED) and other war materials were reportedly recovered also at the clash site. With the CTGs said to be in a fortified position, the clash took about an hour, with fire support from the Philippine Air Force before the enemy positions were seized.
To the Provincial Government, this victory is proof of the government’s commitment to pursue peace in the province. Our government troops deserve our highest recognition for successfully defending our people from communists who continued in their harassment and extortion activities. While we believe peace can be achieved through the whole-of-nation approach, combating with stubborn CTG forces is only possible through a strong Philippine Army, which they have effectively delivered today. Our snappy salute to the 803rd IB leadership of Col. Efren Morados and to his brave men whose dedication and determination to topple the enemies brought us triumph today.
Meanwhile the Provincial Government through Governor Ongchuan, continues in its appeal to the constituents of the province to support the call for the return of those who were waylaid by communists and live a normal and peaceful life, with their families and loved ones.