Rebels snatch 2 soldiers

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – Suspected New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas snatched two Army soldiers in New Corella town, Davao del Norte yesterday morning.

A report from the Army’s 10th Infantry Division said the soldiers, who belong to the 60th Infantry Battalion, were helping secure an airstrip in Barangay San Roque.

The two soldiers were identified as Pfc. Mark Alvin Ricarte and Cpl. Benjamin Samano.

Authorities said at least 15 gunmen posed as workers of a banana plantation and entered the area. Reports said the gunmen fled in a truck owned by the banana farm, taking the two soldiers with them.