Gov't condemns attack by leftist rebels against police trainees

MANILA, Philippines (Xinhua) - The government condemned the ambush allegedly perpetrated by members of the leftist New People's Army (NPA) against the police trainees early this morning in Mountain Province.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas, who has the jurisdiction over the Philippine National Police (PNP), said the trainees were unarmed and were on their regular morning jog in Tadian town when they were fired upon by the suspects.

"This makes the attack more shocking and senseless since it was carried out without any provocation," he said.

Reports reaching the police Camp Crame headquarters said at least one trainee was killed, eight wounded and 24 still missing from the members of the modified PNP Sierra Scout, which were doing their routine morning jogging in the area.

The fatality was identified as Police Officer 1 Denver Balabag. Those who were wounded were immediately taken to the Luis Hora hospital in Tadian.

The PNP said operatives of the Second Company Regional Public Safety Battalion based in Babalaan, Tadian immediately responded and conducted tactical operations.