A military camp in San Fernando, Camarines Sur, was peppered with bullets by a suspected dissident group, causing panic among residents of Barangay Calascagas.

As gunshots rang out at past 6 p.m., residents playing basketball at a covered court nearby and those going about their day-to-day activities sought refuge quickly, fearing of getting hit by stray bullets. 

Merly Bartolome, a resident, said she had to hide under the stairs in her house. 

"Sana mawala na ang takot, kapag naririnig ko ang putok dito sa aming bahay, kinakabahan na ako," she said.

According to Barangay Captain Elmer Olitoquit, this was the third time this happened in their barangay, with previous incidents reported in February 2024 and July 2023.

The target of the gunfire was believed to be the military camp located in Barangay Tinampo.

Soldiers fired retaliatory shots and the exchange of fire lasted for about 20 minutes. 

"Harayo su tigpwestohan kang mga kalaban. Kasubago kaibanan ako pagbisita, pagkua kan si mga kapsula kang mga army, harayo sainda, siguro at least mga 150 meters ang distansya," Olitoquit said.

No one was hurt in the incident. 

Authorities warned residents to remain vigilant against possible reprisals from the dissident group.

Earlier on March 28, 2024, an encounter occurred between government forces and a group of about 20 dissidents in San Vicente, Jovellar, Albay. 

Gunfire was traded for almost an hour.

Firearms, magazines, and other explosive materials used by the dissident group were recovered by authorities after the encounter.

LEADER ARRESTED

During a follow-up operation, a suspected high-ranking leader of a rebel group was arrested in Barangay Matanglad, Pio Duran, Albay.

Materials for making improvised explosive devices were confiscated from his residence.

His companions managed to escape and are now being pursued.