501IB Commander visits encounter site

Col. Dela Cruz (third from right) here talks to his men. Seen here too, is one of the unidentified casualties. Photo by 501IB

STA. TERESITA, Cagayan – Col. Ferdinand Melchor C. Dela Cruz, commander of 501st Infantry Brigade of the 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army visited the encounter site today, May 4, 2023, at Brgy. Brgy. Villa Cielo, Sta. Teresita, Cagayan. Dela Cruz in the photo is giving instructions to his troops regarding the investigation being conducted by authorities for the identification of the two fatalities.

It can be recalled that a firefight between the 95th Infantry Battalion under the operational control of the 501st Infantry Brigade and more or less 20 members of Communists Terrorist NPA rebels ensued yesterday around 3:30 PM. Two deaths from the NPA and three high-powered long firearms were recovered at the site.

Dela Cruz said his leadership is bound to put an end to the communist terrorism activities in his Area of Responsibility. Thus, the intensified Focused Military Operation activities of the brigade.  # Mae Barangan