4 rebels slain in Apayao clash

MANILA, Philippines - Four suspected New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas were killed in a clash with government forces in Luna town, Apayao Friday.

The firefight occurred at around 6 a.m. in Barangay Calayucay, said Senior Superintendent Wilben Mayor, spokesperson for the Philippine National Police.

Senior Inspector Rafael Tangonan, chief of the provincial public safety company, said before the encounter, residents had been complaining about the rebels’ extortion activities in the area. The rebel group was reportedly led by Efren Arquillo, alias Mario.

Security forces recovered from the site an M16 rifle, an Uzi submachine gun, a caliber .38 revolver, two shotguns, two hand grenades, and assorted ammunition.