4 NPAs slain in Mindanao clashes

MANILA, Philippines - Four suspected New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas were killed in separate encounters with government forces in Northern Mindanao over the weekend.

Two of the rebels were killed in a firefight in Malaybalay, Bukidnon Sunday night, according to Armed Forces public affairs chief Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala.

Soldiers belonging to the Army’s 4th Infantry Division recovered two AK-47 rifles, ammunition and personal belongings of the rebels from the site of the encounter.

Zagala said the two other insurgents were killed in another clash in Sison, Surigao del Norte Friday.

The military recovered four firearms, an improvised explosive device and ammunition from the area.

Zagala said no soldier was wounded or killed in the clashes.

“The AFP will continue its focused military operations against the NPA rebels who exploit civilians in rural areas,” Zagala said.  

Meanwhile in Misamis Oriental, security forces are pursuing the rebels who killed a detachment leader and four members of the government militia following an attack on a military patrol base Sunday.

Capt. Christian Uy, spokesman for the 4th Infantry Division based in Camp Evangelista, Cagayan de Oro City, said 50 to 60 NPA rebels hurled molotov bombs into the detachment in Sitio Lantad in Barangay Kibanban, Balingasag town.

Uy said a firefight ensued and resulted in the death of Sgt. Dante Laong, the detachment commander, and four militiamen. Five militiamen were wounded in the attack.      – With Gerry Gorit