ZAMBOANGA CITY — An undetermined number of New People’s Army rebels engaged Army soldiers in a brief exchange of gunfire in a remote sitio in Sultan Kudarat, leading to the recovery of a high-powered firearm and ammunition.

Joint Task Force Central Commander Maj. Gen. Alex Rillera said yesterday that while soldiers of the 37th Infantry Battalion were conducting a focused military operation they were met by a group of NPA at Purok Dalungan, Sitio Biao, Barangay Napnapon, Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat on Thursday night.

Immediately, a brief firefight ensued, after which the enemies scampered in different directions, Rillera said.

During an investigation, the military learned that the group of NPAs belongs  to the Regional Sentro de Grabidad of the Far South Mindanao Region.

No casualty was reported on the government side.

During the clearing operation on the encounter site, the soldiers recovered one M14 rifle and one magazine with 7.62mm ammunition.

Rillera said JTF-C has intensified its campaign against the local and communist terrorist groups, with support from the local government and the populace.

For his part, Armed Forces of the Philippines — Western Mindanao Command Commander Lt. Gen. Roy Galido said “We will continue to sustain the momentum as we draw closer to the attainment of our coveted peace and progress here in Mindanao.”