NPA leader killed in Misamis clash

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — A New People’s Army leader was killed while an NPA amazon was arrested following an encounter with soldiers in Jimenez, Misamis Occidental on Thursday.

The fatality was identified as Michael Cabayag, alias Teddy, of the NPA’s Guerrilla Front Sendong.

Armida Nabicis, alias Yumi, was arrested.

The military said the clash occurred when soldiers belonging to the 101st Infantry Brigade were deployed to check the reported presence of armed men in Barangay Carmen.

Lt. Col. Jose Andre Monje, 101st Infantry Battalion commander, said an M16 rifle with an M203 grenade launcher, two other rifles, magazines with bullets and five bandoliers were recovered at the scene.

“Our commitment goes beyond the battlefield. We will ensure that alias Teddy is properly turned over to his family, respecting the principles of compassion and humanity in this challenging situation,” Monje said.   

He said Nabicis would be turned over to authorities.

Newly installed First Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Gabriel Viray II commended government troopers for displaying ”remarkable professionalism and courage” during their operations.

Viray had vowed a relentless campaign to end communist armed conflict in coordination with local government units and other stakeholders.