Government troops killed two suspected New People’s Army (NPA) members and captured another following an armed encounter in Barangay Del Pilar, Naujan, Oriental Mindoro on Wednesday, the Philippine Army reported Thursday.

The 203rd Infantry (Bantay Kapayapaan) Brigade said its troops launched an operation after receiving information from residents about the presence of armed members of a Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in the area.

The operation resulted in a firefight that left two suspected NPA members dead and another captured.

Troops recovered various items reportedly left behind by fleeing members of the group, including components of an improvised explosive device (IED), food and personal belongings. Pursuit operations against the remaining CTG members were ongoing.

203rd Infantry Brigade commander Brig. Gen. Melencio Ragudo underscored the importance of cooperation among the Army, local governments and communities in addressing security threats.

“This operation shows the importance of the Army’s strong partnership with local government units and the communities we serve,” Ragudo said. He added that the Naujan operation demonstrated how cooperation among security forces, local officials and residents can help limit the movement of armed groups and protect communities.

Ragudo said government forces would continue operations against remaining CTG elements in the province while encouraging members of the group to surrender.

“We will sustain our operations until the remaining armed personalities are accounted for. At the same time, we continue to encourage those who are still in the movement to surrender while they still have the opportunity,” he said.

Meanwhile, 2nd Infantry (Jungle Fighter) Division commander Maj. Gen. Ramon Zagala said the operation showed progress in reducing the capability of remaining CTG elements in Mindoro.

“This accomplishment is another indication that we are steadily reducing the capability of the remaining CTG elements in Mindoro,” Zagala said.

He stressed that the Army’s mission remains focused on protecting communities and preserving peace.