CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – 137 members of the communist and local terrorists have been neutralized by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) following successful focused military operations across the country from January 1 to March 31, 2023.
Against the communist terrorist groups (CTGs), the AFP neutralized 82 regular members. Of these, 17 were killed in combat operations, 20 were apprehended or captured, and 45 surrendered to government forces.
The AFP also gained 210 firearms during encounters and 109 through surrender. Moreover, the troops seized 87 anti-personnel mines (APMs) and discovered 51 encampments.
Of the 22 remaining Guerilla Fronts of the CTG, only three remain active, while 19 are considered weakened and nearing dismantling.
The terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group, on the other hand, lost 30 of its members as 28 surrendered and two were captured. The AFP troops also captured six firearms during encounters and gained 29 through surrender.
Meanwhile, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) continue to suffer losses as three members were killed in combat operations while 18 surrendered to government troops. The BIFF also lost 64 firearms and nine APMs.
Further, three members of the terrorist group Daulah Islamiyah were killed due to focused military operations, while one surrendered. The AFP also gained one firearm, while three APMs were seized.
These significant tactical victories against the CTG and other local terrorist groups were made possible due to the dedication and commitment of AFP troops with the support of the LGUs and other law-enforcement agencies. /// (Photos by the AFP)
