Did Two Soldiers Lose Their Lives in Landmine Explosions in the Philippines?
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Synopsis
In a somber turn of events, two soldiers have been reported dead and three wounded due to landmine explosions in the Philippines. This incident highlights the ongoing conflict with the New People's Army (NPA) rebels, intensifying military operations in the region. Explore the details behind this tragic event and its broader implications.
Key Takeaways
- Two soldiers killed and three wounded from landmine blasts.
- Incident occurred during military operations in Camarines Sur.
- Military intensifying efforts against the NPA.
- Ongoing insurgency has lasted since 1969.
- NPA's strength has drastically declined in recent years.
Manila, Dec 20 (NationPress) Tragic news emerged as two soldiers were confirmed dead and three others sustained injuries due to landmines reportedly set off by rebels during military operations in the province of Camarines Sur on Luzon island, according to the Philippine military on Saturday.
The Philippine Army’s 9th Infantry Division shared via a Facebook reel that this unfortunate incident took place on Friday in a mountainous area of Balatan municipality.
The army reported that the soldiers were affected by the blasts from anti-personnel landmines, as stated by the Xinhua news agency. In response to this event, the military has intensified its pursuit of the New People's Army (NPA) rebels.
Earlier in December, two soldiers lost their lives during a confrontation with left-wing NPA members in Samar province in central Philippines, as reported by the military.
Lieutenant General Antonio Nafarrete, the Commanding General of the Philippine Army, mentioned that the clash occurred around 1 am local time on December 3 in a village in San Jose De Buan municipality.
Recently, the Philippine military reported that a suspected NPA member was killed in a firefight with government forces in Silvino Lobos town, Northern Samar province, where the insurgents were allegedly extorting local residents.
An Army spokesperson from the 8th Infantry Division stated that troops initiated operations on December 11 in the hinterlands of Gusaran village after receiving reports of rebels coercing farmers to surrender parts of their harvest.
As soldiers approached the NPA camp, they were met with gunfire from numerous insurgents, leading to a 15-minute skirmish. The rebels eventually retreated, leaving behind a fallen comrade, an M16 rifle, and various personal belongings, according to the spokesperson.
The NPA has been engaged in a long-running insurgency since 1969, aiming to overthrow the government. Although the group continues to operate primarily in rural regions across Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao, security officials indicate that its ranks have significantly decreased in recent years.
While the NPA remains active in rural areas throughout the archipelago, the military claims that its strength has diminished to approximately 1,000 fighters, a sharp decline from a peak of around 25,000 during the mid-1980s.
Point of View
It is essential to approach this tragic event with sensitivity and a commitment to delivering accurate information. The loss of lives in such conflicts underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the Philippine military and the need for a resolution to the insurgency that has plagued the nation for decades. Our focus remains on informing the public while respecting the gravity of the situation.
NationPress
23/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the landmine explosions?
The landmine explosions were reportedly set off by rebels during military operations in Camarines Sur province.
How many soldiers were affected?
Two soldiers were killed, and three others were wounded in the incident.
What is the military's response?
The military has intensified its pursuit operations against the New People's Army (NPA) rebels following the landmine blasts.
What is the history of the NPA?
The NPA has been engaged in an insurgency since 1969, seeking to overthrow the government and primarily operates in rural areas.
How has the strength of the NPA changed over the years?
The NPA's strength has significantly decreased from around 25,000 fighters in the mid-1980s to approximately 1,000 currently.
