Philippine Troops Kill 7 Communist Guerrillas, Pursuing Others in Decades-Long Insurgency

For decades, the conflict between the Philippine government and the New People's Army (NPA) has plagued the country's central provinces. Despite the military's claim that the insurgency is on the brink of collapse, rebel forces continue to put up a fight. In a recent offensive, Philippine troops killed 7 communist guerrillas in a central province, sparking a renewed focus on ending the decades-long conflict.

Key Takeaways:

• Philippine troops killed 7 communist guerrillas in a 30-minute gunbattle in Uson town, Masbate province, on Sunday, with 7 assault rifles and 2 grenade launchers recovered at the scene.
• At least 8 rebels managed to flee in different directions and were being pursued by military forces.
• According to Maj. Frank Roldan of the 9th Infantry Division, about 50 armed guerrillas remain in the island province, a poverty-stricken agricultural region of over 900,000 people.
• Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. estimates that less than 900 rebels remain, mostly in eastern rural regions, down from the estimated 25,000 insurgent force at its peak 56 years ago.
• The NPA's forces are "saddled by battle defeats, surrenders, and factionalism," according to Brig. Gen. Medel Aguilar, deputy commander of the military's Civil Relations Service.
• Peace talks brokered by Norway collapsed under previous President Rodrigo Duterte after both sides accused each other of continuing deadly attacks despite the negotiations.

Statistics:

• Estimated 25,000 insurgent force at the peak of the 56-year insurgency.
• Less than 900 rebels remain, according to Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr.
• 50 armed guerrillas remaining in the island province, estimates Maj. Frank Roldan.
• 30-minute gunbattle at the scene of the battle, where 7 guerrillas were killed.
• 7 assault rifles and 2 grenade launchers recovered by troops.

Sources:

• The Associated Press
• Armed Forces of the Philippines