Trooper, rebel killed in Kalinga clash

MANILA, Philippines — An Army trooper and an alleged rebel were killed when a band of New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas attacked a military patrol base in Lubuagan, Kalinga yesterday morning.

At least 30 rebels reportedly stormed the Ag-agama CAFGU-Active Auxiliary patrol base located in Barangay Western Uma, according to Maj. Ericson Bulosan, chief information officer of the Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom).

Bulosan said the attack indicated that the communist group was not sincere when it declared a unilateral ceasefire for the Yuletide season.

“The CPP-NPA broke its vow of a unilateral ceasefire for these coming Christmas season,” Bulosan said, referring to the Communist Party of the Philippines.

The Army’s 503rd Infantry Brigade launched a pursuit operation against the rebels, who fled after exchanging fire with the government forces.

The military withheld the name of the slain trooper until after his family is properly notified. It has yet to identify the slain rebel.

Nolcom chief Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Salamat reminded his men to be more vigilant during the holidays, noting it is during this time of the year when people are vulnerable to attacks.

He gave assurance that the military would be more focus in their operations to prevent terrorists and other hostile groups from launching offensives.

3 NPAs surrender in Bukidnon

Three NPA insurgents surrendered to the military in Malaybalay, Bukidnon over the weekend.

The surrenderees – identified by their aliases as Macmac, 26; Momo, 23, and Talagkos, 21 – brought their firearms with them when they turned themselves in to the Army’s 8th Infantry Battalion.

The three cited the chance to be with their families during the holidays as among the reasons for their surrender.