Philippine security forces arrested two alleged high-ranking members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) during an operation in Bongabong, Oriental Mindoro.
The suspects were identified as Jay Maligo Fran and Kelvin B. Joaquin, both accused of serving as vice squad leaders in the rebel group, according to a military statement.
The joint police-military operation in Bongabong town led to the seizure of a .45 caliber pistol, an improvised explosive device, electronic devices and documents allegedly linking the suspects to the NPA.
Both men were arrested on rebellion charges based on warrants issued by a regional court in Pinamalayan, the statement said.
The NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, has been waging one of Asia’s longest-running insurgencies.
A military spokesperson called on remaining rebels to surrender and avail of the government’s amnesty and reintegration program.
The communist insurgency has claimed thousands of lives since 1969.
Despite huge decline in their numbers in recent years, the rebels remain active in various parts of the country.
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