Maj.Gen.Cardoso Luna, Philippine Armys 4th Infantry Division commanding general, said that while barangay residents were cleaning a chapel in Bugsuk, Butuan City, some 15 armed rebels attacked and open fired at them.
Killed in the attack were Teodoro Bulanon, 35; Jojo Etorma, 24; and Fredo Manenaque, 20.
Critically wounded were Barangay Bugsuk Councilor Magdalino Etorma and Jun Jun Pedongo.
The military said the communist rebels were led by a certain "Ka Arway" of the local NPA front, who was allegedly hunting down Etorma, who is suspected of being a military asset and for refusing to cooperate with the rebels. Lino dela Cruz