8 NPA rebels killed in Sorsogon

MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) – At least 8 New People’s Army (NPA) rebels, two of whom women, were killed in an encounter with Army troops in Juban, Sorsogon, Thursday morning, July 4, the military said.

Lt Col Ramon Zagala, military public affairs office chief, said troops from the 31st Infantry Battalion under Lt Col Beerjenson Aquino clashed with the rebels at 6 am Thursday in Barangay Upper Calmayon.

The clash lasted for about 35 minutes. The soldiers recovered five M16 rifles and an improvised explosive device.

There were no casualties among the government troops.

The rebels were said to be extorting residents in the area, prompting civilians to seek military assistance. 

Soldiers are now pursuing other rebels who fled after the encounter. 

The encounter follows a spate of rebel attacks in key provinces nationwide. The peace talks between the government and the NPA’s umbrella organization, the National Democratic Front, broke down early this year. – Rappler.com