Troops repulse NPA attack

Two suspected New People’s Army rebels were killed while a soldier was wounded in an attack on troops securing an eco park in Barangay Aliwagwag, Cateel, Davao Oriental yesterday.

Troops of the 67th Infantry Battalion securing the Aliwagwag Falls Eco Park managed to repulse the hour-long attack by 40 NPA. Troops recovered an M14 rifle left by the fleeing NPA.

Residents reported seeing fleeing NPA guerrillas carrying two dead and severely wounded comrades.

Police and military checkpoints have been established while pursuit operations were launched against the fleeing NPA rebels.

The wounded soldier was taken to a nearby hospital.

Major Gen. Rafael Valencia, commander of the Army 10th Infantry Division, lauded the troops for their bravery.

“This attack is a wanton disregard of the people’s safety and source of livelihood, showing once more the anti-people and anti-development character of the nuisance propaganda army of the communists,” Valencia said.

“No tourist was injured in the attack,” spokesman Capt. Ryan Batchar added.

Aliwagwag Falls Eco Park is one of the main tourist destinations in Davao Oriental.