Raps filed vs 5 NPAs tagged in burning of Bicol airport equipment

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines  – Five suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were charged with frustrated murder before the Albay prosecutor’s office after witnesses pointed to them as among those who raided an Army detachment before burning heavy equipment at the construction site of the Bicol international airport in Barangay Alobo, Daraga, Albay.

Senior Superintendent Paulino Belga, Albay deputy police director, said charges were filed against Rolando Alcera, a resident of Barangay Talisay, Oas town; Dante Orcio of Barangay Comon, Camalig town; Eduardo Sevilla of Barangay Buga, Libon town; Rolito Calayas alias Ka Igme of Piodura town; and Jose Bernardino alias Rico, also of Pioduran.

Rebel-returnees were believed to have provided the identities of the accused.

Pfcs. Ard Ryan Gayapao and Jomar Cornal, both members of the 901st Infantry Brigade, were wounded when the five, among at least 20 suspected NPA rebels. attacked an Army detachment last May 18. 

 Superintendent Nilo Berdin, Daraga police chief, who led the investigation into the incident, said an arson case will also be filed against the suspects.

The suspected rebels burned 12 heavy equipment worth P75-million.