Philippines: Security forces engage NPA rebels in Monreal (Masbate province) April 29

Event

Security forces killed two suspected New People's Army (NPA) rebels in clashes in Monreal (Masbate province) on Wednesday, April 29. Fighting broke out between police officers and a group of 15 militants during an operation to carry out an arrest warrant in the Barangay McArthur area. A number of automatic weapons were recovered from the scene of the clashes.

Further security operations are possible in the area over the near term.

Context

The NPA is the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), founded in 1969, that seeks to bring a communist revolution to the Philippines through revolutionary taxation and guerrilla insurgency. The group is mainly active in Mindanao and has been designated as a terrorist group by the US, EU, and the Philippines.

Advice

Individuals in Masbate province are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, report suspicious objects and behavior to police, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.