New Corella, Davao del Norte - Elements of 25IB and 60IB, under 1001st (PAG-ASA) Brigade figured in series of encounter with members of GF 33 led by alias Bugoy at the hinterlands of Brgy. Sto Nino, New Corella, Davao del Norte, December 12, 2020.
The said encounters resulted to the death of One (1) NPA amason named alias MARIA, member of WGF 33; two (2) captured named alias BUGOY, Vice CO WGF 33 and alias SHANE, squad medic; surrender of two (2) NPAs namely Doublas Costante alias NICE, Vice CO, Front Operational Command (FOC) WGF 33 and Lovely Rin Marangon alias ASHLEY, a member; and recovery of ten (10) HPFAs composed of five (5) M16 rifle, three (3) M14 rifle, one (1) M653 grenade launcher and one (1) AK47. These were made possible due to continuous and relentless combat operations with the application of community engagements headed by the various Local Chief executives, stakeholders engagements with private and public security stakeholders.
The remains of Maria was brought to Damalerio Funeral Homes before handing her over to her family for a decent burial. The two NPA captured and two voluntarily surrendered are already undergoing interview.
COL LUIS REX D BERGANTE INF (GSC) PA the Brigade Commander of 1001st “PAG-ASA” Brigade also extend condolences to the families of alias MARIA. Col Bergante also lauded the troops and reiterates his message to remaining NPAs to lay down their arms and instead embrace peace, It is just unfortunate that someone lost her life. “In the spirit of Christmas, come to us and we would be happy to help you join with your family like your former comrades who are now happy and looking forward in celebrating Christmas and New Year with their respective families”.
It can be recalled that last November 28, 2020, alias KARLO, Former Secretary of WGF 33, father of alias KING, the current CO of WGF 33 surrendered to 25IB during an encounter in Brgy. San Roque, Nabunturan, Davao de Oro which resulted to recovery of one (1) caliber 45 and one (1) IED Anti-personnel. During interviews, he revealed WGF 33's disposition.
Meanwhile, the leadership of 10ID expressed the same sympathy to the family of killed NPA. MGen Reuben Basiao commended the brave men and officers under 1001st Brigade, the LGU and residents of New Corella for their united effort in preventing communist-terrorists from destroying the Peace that the community has started to experienced. With the destruction of armed elements of GF 33, your armed forces together with the LGUs will continue to push for developmental programs. According to Governor Edwin Jubahib, "this time programs and projects in Davao Norte will be unhampered with the possible dissolution of GF 33."
