Farmer killed in Sorsogon clash

MANILA, Philippines - A farmer was killed in an encounter between Army soldiers and suspected New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas in Bulusan, Sorsogon yesterday.

Jestoni Garote died after a stray bullet hit him during a firefight that occurred in Barangay San Jose at around 6:45 a.m. Garote’s house is located near the scene of the encounter.

Troops from the Army’s 31st Infantry Battalion (IB) were conducting patrols in the village when the rebels shot at them, said 1Lt. Clint Antipala, spokesman for the Army’s 903rd Infantry Division.

Before the clash, the military received reports that a group of armed men were forcing villagers to join an anti-government rally commemorating the anniversary of the declaration of martial law on Sept. 21. 

Meanwhile in Zamboanga del Sur, government security forces captured a suspected bomber of the NPA in Dumingag town Tuesday.

Joel Sumagop, 36, of Barangay Saad, was reportedly carrying materials used in making improvised explosive devices (IEDs) when he was arrested by members of the local police and the military, said Police Inspector Dahlan Samuddin, spokesman for the Police Regional Office 9.

Sumagop reportedly tried to escape when he saw the soldiers. 

Samuddin said the team recovered from the suspect 30 blasting caps, seven arming devices, electric wires, 18 dry cell batteries, 765 bullets for an AK-47 rifle, medical supplies and personal belongings. – With Roel Pareño