NPAs attack Misamis military outpost; 4 dead

MANILA, Philippines - Three militiamen and one soldier were killed when communist rebels yesterday attacked a military outpost in a Misamis Oriental area, which ironically has been dubbed as “Village of Hope.”

Capt. Christian Uy, spokesman of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division, said New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas staged the “cowardly attack” in Sitio Lantad, Barangay Kibanban at around 1 a.m. “while the village folk were in their deep slumber.” 

“They went from house to house and hogtied civilians especially those identified to be supporting the peace and development of the area before firing at the security forces assigned in the area,” Uy said in a statement.

The identities of the slain soldier and militiamen were withheld pending notification of their families. Three other persons were wounded in the attack.

Uy said the military outpost made of light materials was set on fire due to the rebels’ gunfire.

Sitio Lantad was dubbed as “Village of Hope” in 2005 as it symbolized the cooperation of the military and the local government in curbing insurgency. A military outpost was established in the area to maintain peace and order.

The province of Misamis Oriental even bagged a “Galing Pook” award in 2010 for its development efforts.

Uy said members of the 58th Infantry Battalion are now helping the local police run after the NPA attackers.

“Local government agencies are working hand in hand to give justice to the victims of this cowardly harassment,” he said.