3 killed in Galera landmine explosion

CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna – Two policemen and a truck driver were killed while another law enforcer was wounded when their vehicle ran into a landmine planted by the New People’s Army (NPA) in Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro yesterday morning.

Killed were PO1s Roderick Padojinog and Amormio Baticos, both members of the 3rd Regional Mobile Group, and truck driver Leonardo Caube. Wounded was PO2 Dondon Pangilinan.

Senior Superintendent Samuel Pagdilao, Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesman, deplored the NPA for using landmine, which he said is a violation of international law.

"Whatever landmine is actually a violation of international law. When it explodes, it does not discriminate whether you are a combatant or an ordinary civilian. That is why it is outlawed. The use by the NPA of the landmine is really deplorable and it is a violation of international law," he added.

Reports said the victims, along with other members of the 3rd RMG led by Inspector Wilson Gani, were ambushed in Sitio Talipanan in Barangay Aninuan, Puerto Galera town.

The policemen were returning to their headquarters after securing a Globe Telecom cell site in the area when their truck ran into the landmine.

After the explosion, a short firefight ensued. The rebels retreated when police reinforcements arrived.

Gani and PO1 Joseph Panes, who were initially reported missing and feared abducted by the rebels, surfaced and said that they gave chase to the rebels.

Police have beefed up security in the area to thwart any similar attacks. – Cecille Suerte Felipe, Arnell Ozaeta