NPA fighter killed in ComVal clash

CAMP DATU LIPUS MAKAPANDONG, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur – A New People’s Army (NPA) terrorist was killed while an undetermined number of other rebels were reportedly wounded in a gun battle between troops of the 66th Infantry Battallion (66th IB) in Sudlon area, Barangay Tagugpo, Pantukan, Compostela Valley (ComVal) province on Tuesday, a military report reaching here on Wednesday said.

A flash report received here also said elements of 66th IB came upon the body of a slain NPA, believed to be a member of the Medic Platoon of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA Southern Mindanao Regional Committee.

He was later identified only as “Jopaks”. His remains were presented to local officials of Tagugpo, Pantukan town for proper identification and a decent burial, the 66th IB report added.

Soldiers were also able to recover a .45caliber pistol and live ammunition.

Their (66th IB) initial report said the Communist terrorists attempted to recover a base camp located in the Sudlon area, but was scuttled by the arrival of the soldiers who were alerted by villagers.

Troops of the 66th IB engaged the NPAs at 5 a.m., Tuesday, and repulsed the enemy after a 15-minute gunfight.

The military report said the NPAs retreated towards the direction of Barangay Tagugpo, leaving behind their dead comrade.