2 rebels slain in clashes

BUTUAN CITY, Philippines – Two suspected New People’s Army rebels were killed in encounters with government troops in Agusan del Sur and Surigao City on Monday.

A rebel died in the encounter in Barangay New Tubigon, Sibagat at around 3:30 p.m. and  lasted for about 20 minutes, said Capt. Joe Patrick Martinez, 4th Infantry Division spokesman.

Troops recovered an M16 and two AK 47 rifles. 

 Another rebel died in an encounter with soldiers belonging to the 30th Infantry Battalion in Sitio Brazil, Barangay Mat-i in Surigao City at around 7 p.m.

The military said several other rebels were wounded in the clashes.