A unit of the New People’s Army (NPA)-Batangas (Eduardo Dagli Command) bravely defended itself against an ambush by 59th IB soldiers on April 2 in Barangay San Isidro, Rosario, Batangas. The Red fighters managed to maneuver and secure a strategic position amid the hail of bullets from the 59th IB soldiers.

The Red army was able to return fire, causing the soldiers to abruptly cease their barrage. Later, the Red fighters heard shouts from some soldiers of the 59th IB saying that they had been hit.

After the encounter, the NPA-Batangas confirmed through a reliable source that one soldier was killed and four were wounded from the 59th IB. On the other hand, the Red fighters safely withdrew without any injuries, according to the unit.

The people’s army unit was conducting social investigations in communities regarding the effects of environmental projects. It was also documenting complaints from farmers and residents about the 59th IB’s violations of human rights in Rosario.

After the failed assault, 59th IB soldiers and Philippine National Police immediately deployed forces along the main road of Barangay San Isidro. They set up numerous checkpoints, severely disrupting the supposedly free flow of civilians’ livelihoods. Meanwhile, two days after the encounter, the 59th IB reportedly fired indiscriminately, terrorizing the residents.

NPA-Batangas spokesperson Gregorio “Ka Goryo” Caraig condemned the military violence. “The military’s reckless disregard for people’s lives and livelihood proves that they intentionally inflict collateral damage to ordinary masses even when they have no links to the revolutionary movement,” he said.

The spokesperson added, “It is certain that there are sinister plans by the US-Marcos II regime and its favored large contracts in mining, quarrying, road construction, and renewable energies that will destroy the livelihoods of thousands of Batangueños.” Ka Goryo was referring to projects planned for Rosario and its neighboring towns.

“We call on the Batangueño masses not to be afraid of threats to your lives. Instead, immediately report these to an NPA unit or a nearby Party unit so we can collectively resist schemes that will harm your livelihood and dignity,” he urged.

Ka Goryo further stated, “Here is your army, the NPA, which since 1969 has been an ally of peasant and toiling masses. The NPA will punish anyone proven to be destroying our environment and violating the lives of Batangueño citizens.”