The military in Davao Oriental vowed to block the New People’s Army’s attempts “to disturb the peace” after more or less 30 alleged rebels attacked Sitio Barobo, Barangay San Isidro in Lupon, Davao Oriental at 10:30 a.m. last Saturday.

Brig. Gen. Leonido Bongcawil, commander of the 701st Infantry Brigade, said they have been receiving consistent reports about the rebels setting up to attack using improvised explosive devices.

He deplored the use of IED in the conduct of warfare as it impacts on the safety not only of the soldiers but also of the residents in the area.

“The 10th ID will continue to thwart terror attacks such as land mining in order to perform its mandate to serve and protect the people,” Bongcawil said.

Members of the 28th Infantry Battalion recovered two IEDs and an M203-Armalite rifle, following an encounter with the rebels who attempted to surprise a peace and development team heading towards the barangay.

No soldier was hurt in the incident.

Lt. Col. Leopoldo Imbang Jr., commanding officer of the 28th IB, called on the residents to be vigilant on the abuses perpetrated by the rebels.

“The presence of this organized crime group will not hamper us from pursuing the desire of the government for a lasting peace for the people of Lupon,” he said.

In 2011, the soldiers encountered the rebels in this municipality three times; June 26 in Barangay Tagugpo; on June 27 in Barangay Maragatas, and Nov. 8 in Sitio Kinawasan, Barangay San Isidro.

The military surmised that the group that attacked Lupon may be the same ones who raided the banana plantation of Sumifru Philippines in Mawab, Compostela Valley, but was foiled by members of the 10th ID that resulted to six casualties and the recovery of six high powered firearms and ammunitions.