Rebels snatch 10 in Agusan, Surigao

MANILA, Philippines - Ten persons, including seven militiamen and two policemen, were kidnapped by communist rebels in separate incidents in Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur, the military said yesterday.

Army spokesman Lt. Colonel  Randolph Cabangbang said four of the militiamen were kidnapped on Monday by New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Barangay Mahayhay, San Luis Agusan del Sur.

The four were identified as  Mario Libanda, 39; Tuloy Libanda, 36; Rejoy Francisco, 25, and Rubio Asalan, 23.

In another incident, two policemen were kidnapped in Loreto, Agusan del Sur by communist insurgents last Sunday.

Reports said Police Officer 2 Ronald Alan Muñez and Police Officer 1 Nemuel España were conducting surveillance operations when they were kidnapped by the rebels who reportedly brought them to Sitio Marang in Barangay Kasapa.

A municipal crisis management committee has been activated to ensure the safe release of the policemen.

Meanwhile, three more militiamen and one civilian were also kidnapped by suspected NPA rebels in Tagbina, Surigao del Sur last Sunday.