Soldier dead in clash with NPA in Capiz

MANILA, Philippines - A soldier was killed in an encounter with communist rebels in Tapaz, Capiz Thursday, a military official said.

Maj. Ray Tiongson, spokesman of the Army’s 3rd division, said members of the 61st battalion were conducting development activities in Barangay Roosevelt when they were fired upon by about 10 rebels.

The insurgents are said to be members of a platoon under the New People’s Army Panay Regional Committee.

“Our troops were there to help the local government unit in assisting the people to resolve the issues in their community,” said Lt. Col. Victor Llapitan, commander of the 61st Infantry Battalion.

“We engaged the NPA bandits that resulted in the death of one of our soldiers,” he added.

The slain soldier was identified as Pfc. Lowel John Bravo, 31, a resident of Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental.

Tiongson said blood stains were seen along the rebels’ route of withdrawal.

“The NPA continues to deprive the people of Tapaz to have a developed community. This will not hamper our initiatives to provide the necessary services and assistance to the people for them to have a peaceful and better life,” Llapitan said.

Maj. Gen. Aurelio Baladad, chief of Army’s 3rd division, instructed his troops to ensure the safety and security of the people in the area while adhering to International Humanitarian Law and the rule of law. – Alexis Romero