CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — State troops from the 58th Infantry “Dimalupig” Battalion have engaged retreating New People’s Army (NPA) rebels on Thursday morning in the hinterlands of Gingoog City, according to reports.

Lt. Col. Leoncito Grezula Jr., commander of the 58th Infantry Battalion, reported that the military is pursuing a band of rebels following an initial encounter in Barangay Balaason, Gingoog City.

“The Army is currently engaged in an ongoing encounter with the Armed Communist Terrorist Group under the leadership of Alyas Jackem of the Sub-Regional Sentro de Grabidad Eagles, Sub-Regional Committee 1 (SRC 1), North Central Mindanao Regional Committee,” Grezula said.

Reports also said that last Friday, a brief firefight ensued and lasted approximately five minutes and as the enemy withdrew eastward, troops discovered bloodstains at the encounter site, indicating possible enemy casualties.

Recovered items include one M16 rifle with a defaced serial number, three magazines, one bandolier and one backpack.

He added that the unit is currently conducting sustained focused military operations in Barangay Balaason and neighboring communities to prevent remnants of the insurgents from disrupting peace and development efforts in the area.

Grezula also urged the community to remain vigilant, take an active role, and immediately report any sightings of rebel members to the authorities and encouraged residents to help persuade members of the CPP-NPA to surrender, stressing that numerous government programs and projects are available to support their reintegration into society.

No casualties on either side have been reported as of yet.