4 NPA rebels dead in Mindanao clashes

MANILA, Philippines - Four communist rebels were killed in separate encounters that transpired last weekend in Northern Mindanao.

Armed Forces public affairs chief Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala said two members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were slain in a clash with soldiers in Malaybalay, Bukidnon Sunday night.

Members of the Army’s 4th division recovered two AK47 rifles, ammunition and personal belongings from the encounter site.

Two more insurgents were killed in another clash between the 4th Infantry Division and the NPA last Friday in Sison, Surigao del Norte.

Four high-powered firearms, one improvised explosive device and ammunition were recovered from the area.

Zagala said the military did not suffer any fatalities during the two firefights.

“The AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) will continue its focused military operations against the NPA rebels who continue to exploit civilians in rural areas in the country,” Zagala said.