Soldier slain in Capiz clash

MANILA, Philippines - A soldier was killed in an encounter with communist rebels in Tapaz, Capiz yesterday.

Pfc. Lowel John Bravo, 31, of Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental, was among the soldiers of the Army’s 61st Infantry Batallion (IB) conducting development activities in Barangay Roosevelt when they were attacked by at least 10 New People’s Army guerrillas, said Maj. Ray Tiongson, spokesman for the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division.

“Our troops were helping the local government resolve issues in their community when they were attacked,” said Lt. Col. Victor Llapitan, commander of the 61st IB.

Llapitan said his soldiers managed to retaliate forcing the rebels to retreat. The firefight however left Bravo dead.

Tiongson said pursuing soldiers saw bloodstains along the rebels’ escape route. 

“The NPA continues to deprive the people of Tapaz of a developed community. This will not stop us from providing services and assistance needed for the people to have a peaceful and better life,” Llapitan said.