1 rebel, 1 soldier dead in Mindanao clashes

A soldier and a communist rebel were killed in separate encounters in Mindanao last Tuesday, military officials said.

Capt. Alberto Caber, spokesman of the Army’s 1st division, said about 10 suspected rebels ambushed a member of the 53rd battalion at about 5:30 p.m. at the boundaries of Bugwak and Dalapan in Zamboanga del Sur.

The victim, identified as Cpl. Anthony Bahala, was on his way back to his base in Guipos town on board a motorcycle when the incident happened.

Lt. Col. Victor Tanggawohn Jr., chief of the Army’s 53rd battalion, said Bahala and four other soldiers had been sent to the area to verify reports about the presence of rebels involved in extortion activities.

“Cpl. Bahala was able to return fire against his assailants. Traces of blood were seen by the first responders at a vegetated area where the assailants positioned,” Tanggawohn said.

The military is now working closely with the police in pursing the gunmen.

Meanwhile, one rebel was killed in a clash with members of the Army’s 6th Scout Ranger Company at an area near Davao del Sur and North Cotabato.

Col. Prudencio Asto, spokesman of the Army’s 6th division, said the encounter was a result of operations against members of the New People’s Army (NPA) who have been intimidating the local residents.

He said the clash happened at about 1:45 p.m. at the hinterland boundary of Magsaysay, Davao del Sur and Tulunan, North Cotabato.

“Government troops recovered two high-powered firearms (from) the encounter site. There were no reported casualties on the government side,” Asto said.

The military is still validating the identity of the slain rebel. Asto said several NPA members were wounded during the clash but only one was identified namely Reynante Soliman Dalon.

The wounded rebel was airlifted and was brought to the Camp Siongco Station Hospital in Maguindanao.