The Armed Forces of the Philippines on Sunday reported that at least four rebel members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army were killed while one was arrested following an encounter on Sunday dawn in Negros Oriental.

The AFP’s Visayas Command recovered seven high-powered firearms and Improvised Explosive Device components after a 20-minute clash around 5:10 a.m. on 21 May between the soldiers and NPA’s Central Negros 1 under Komiteng Rehiyon Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor or KR NCBS in Sitio Cambawgon, Barangay Trinidad, Guihulngan City.

Recovered in the clash area are M4 Firebird Rifle; two M16 Rifles; a Caliber 30; 3 Cal. 45 Pistols; 15 assorted magazine assemblies; several assorted live ammunition; four Rifle Grenades; improvised explosive devices and several IED components.

VisCom commander Lt. Gen. Benedict Arevalo said the cooperation the AFP is getting from the people and the local government units in the Negros province resulted in the triumph of government forces against terrorism.

“This is never going to stop. We cannot allow these peace spoilers to further sow fear and terror, as our operations will continue without any let-up. We will continue to push with our focused military operation and push harder until justice is served for the atrocities that the terrorist group has committed to our people, as we are determined on ending the local communist armed conflict in the region the soonest possible time,” Arevalo said.

“Heed the call of our government and follow the lead of your former comrades who are now living peaceful and progressive lives with their families. Lay down your arms now before it’s too late,” he added.