Members of the National People’s Army (NPA) tried to ambush Mely Ahan, a district leader known to be a staunch anti-communist advocate, but she escaped harm and called on the village militia for help, Maj. Jose Cuerpo said.
Soldiers and militiamen clashed with the rebels, resulting in the two deaths and wounding of 10 others.
An M-16 rifle was also recovered from the NPA in the battle, military reports added.
The 7,400-strong NPA is the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, which has been waging a 37-year Maoist insurgency.
In recent months, it has stepped up attacks on government installations and rural businesses. — Roel Pareño, AFP