NPAs attack soldiers after GMA visit

COMPOSTELA, Compostela Valley — The Presidential Security Group has tightened anew the security of President Arroyo after suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels fired at a truckload of soldiers returning to their camp after securing the President during her visit to this town yesterday.

Two hours after the President had left on board a helicopter at about 11 a.m., the rebels attacked elements of the Army’s 404th Infantry Brigade in Nabunturan town. No one was hurt among the soldiers who had managed to shoot back.

The President stayed here for at least one hour to attend the launching and inauguration of the agricultural nursery and tissue facility initiated by first district Rep. Manuel Zamora.

"We have to investigate the incident further because it involves the security of the President herself," a PSG official told The STAR.

The President was supposed to hold the joint meeting of her Cabinet and various regional development councils in Mindanao in Davao City, but the PSG opted to hold it in Cotabato City where she was considered more secure.

She visited this town before proceeding to Cotabato City.