Villagers flee Surigao town

ZAMBOANGA CITY — The military confirmed yesterday that thousands had evacuated their village in Lianga town in Surigao del Sur, following attacks on civilians by communist rebels in a bid to halt government offensive in the town.

Armed Forces Southern Command chief Lt. Gen. Albert Braganza reported heavy fighting between government troops under the 4th Army Division and the New People’s Army (NPA).

"Because of the heavy fighting and harassment from the communist rebels, it was necessary to evacuate over 1,570 residents to nearby areas," Braganza said.

"It is unfortunate that these measures had to be undertaken but the AFP holds the safety of civilians as one of its top priorities," he added.

Maj. Gen. Samuel Bagasin, 4th Army Division chief, said they are now coordinating with local government leaders and other government agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of the displaced families in evacuation centers.

The military disclosed that the ongoing offensive has already resulted in civilian casualty.

A certain Jessie Bacasmas was shot by an NPA sniper while trying to evacuate a wounded soldier, the military reported.

Officials also confirmed that communist insurgents do not spare civilians, especially those who are helping government troops in evacuating villagers.

"Where are the so-called human rights advocates now that civilians have once again been victimized by the communist terrorists?" Braganza asked.

He said the NPA continues to harass troops following the discovery and seizure of five truckloads of assorted explosives in the rebels’ ammunition factory in Andap Valley.