At least six rebels and one soldier died after an armed encounter between military troops and the New People's Army in Balayan, Batangas province on Sunday.

LtCol. Hector Estolas, public affairs chief of the Philippine Army 2nd Infantry Division, said the joint government forces from the 59th Infantry "Protector" Battalion of the Philippine Navy and Philippine Airforce were conducting combat operations at Barangay Malalay in the province when they encountered undetermined number of armed personalities, believed to be members of NPA's SPP Kawing of the Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee's Sub-Regional Military Area 4C.

The firefight resulted in the recovery of two M16 rifles, a M653 rifle, a Shotgun, and other subversive documents of the communist group.

"Pursuit operations are now ongoing against the fleeing NPA rebels," Estolas said.

He also confirmed three soldiers were wounded in the armed battle that lasted about six hours, from 12 midnight until 6 a.m.

"The wounded soldiers have already been evacuated at the Medical Center Western Batangas in Balayan," Estolas said.

"Families of the soldiers were already notified of the incident," he added.

Estolas said the NPA members were about to attend a meeting ahead of the founding anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines on 26 December.

Meanwhile, 2ID Commander MGen. Roberto Capulong said the Philippine Army will remain vigilant against the atrocities of the communist rebels during the holidays.

"This encounter has incurred fatalities in our ranks, but this will not deter our resolve to continue our sworn duty in ensuring the safety and security of our communities against these terrorist groups, especially this Yuletide Season," he said.

Capulong then urged the remaining NPA rebels "to give peace a chance, surrender and embrace the government's peace programs so that they can be with their families and loved ones this Christmas."

In a statement, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. extended condolences to the family of the soldier killed during the armed encounter in Batangas.

He thanked the members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines for showcasing loyalty and bravery to defend and secure the country at all times.

"We are ensuring that our wounded soldiers will receive the best medical care, and provide all the necessary assistance to the family of our slain soldier during this difficult time," Teodoro said.