DAVAO CITY- The Troops of 71st Infantry (Kaibigan) Battalion encountered Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) at Sitio Kabaihan, Brgy Tibagon, Pantukan, Compostela Valley Province.While on combat operations, troops under Alpha Company of 71st IB encountered more or less thirty (30) CNTs believed to be members of Weakened Guerilla Front 2 (WGF 2), under Sub-Regional Committee 2 (SRC2), Southern Mindanao Regional Command (SMRC).
The terrorists used Improvised Explosive Device (IED) to inflict casualties against the troops. Firefight ensued for 10 minutes forcing the terrorist CNTS to withdraw towards south and southeast direction. In the encounter area, the troops recovered one (1) Improvised Explosive Device, forty (40) meters strip wires, one (1) circuit construction tester, two (2) pieces hammock, one (1) mobile phone, one (1) sling bag and some personal belongings.
Further, bloodstains were found, an indication of casualties among the terrorists.
Prior to the encounter, Lieutenant Colonel Esteveyn E Ducusin, Commanding Officer of 71IB ordered to conduct combat operations within the area of Brgy Tibagon, Pantukan, Compostela Valley. The conduct of operation prevents terrorists from launching atrocities in the said barangay where Gov. Jayvee Uy of Compostela Valley, Hon Roberto Yugo, Pantukan Municipal Mayor and personnel from other government agencies visited last September 6, 2019 for a social preparation in connection with the proposed Dep-Ed School to be established at Sitio Sapang Lubog, Brgy Tibagon, Pantukan, Compostela Valley Province.
“We provide best effort to secure the land to pave a way for progress. In order for progress to happen, we will always be of service to protect the land and its people and together we will create progress, ” Ducusin said. “However, the terrorists have been trying to sabotage the development because they are threatened,” Ducusin added.
LGU and the community decided to install a new school after Dep-Ed issued an order for closure of Salugpongan Community School. The Kaibigan Battalion has been supportive to government initiatives for social progress and development.