MANILA, Philippine: The conflict between Philippine security forces and Maoist, eight communist militants and a policeman lost their lives in clashes this week, the army confirmed on Friday.
The skirmishes occurred across central Bohol and Negros islands, underscoring the persistent challenge posed by the long-standing insurgency despite recent hopes for peace talks.
The most recent confrontation occurred on Bohol island, where five rebels, including NPA leader Domingo Jaspe Compoc, were killed during a police and army operation.
Compoc, a figure of notoriety with a substantial bounty on his head, was wanted on charges of rebellion and multiple murders. Additionally, a police officer was fatally shot, and another was injured during the operation.
Earlier in the week, three NPA members were killed in gunfights on Negros island, resulting in injuries to three soldiers. The military emphasized its commitment to ongoing internal security operations until directives to cease such activities are received.
Despite a joint announcement by President Ferdinand Marcos’s government and the rebels in November regarding intentions to resume peace talks in 2024, formal negotiations have yet to be scheduled. The protracted conflict, which has claimed thousands of lives over the years, underscores the challenges in achieving a lasting peace agreement in the Philippines.
