Airman dead from NPA clash in Batangas

MANILA, Philippines - An airman was killed in a clash with about 15 armed men believed to be New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Tuy, Batangas last Monday, an official said.

Armed Forces Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) spokesman Maj. Angelo Guzman said members of the Air Force’s 730th Combat Group were conducting patrols in Barangay Toong when they encountered the rebels at 5:49 p.m.

A soldier identified as Airman 1st Class Cliff Arvin Alama was wounded on the left shoulder and was immediately pulled out of the encounter site. He was rushed to the Medical Center but died on the way.

SOLCOM is now conducting pursuit operations against the insurgents.

“SOLCOM will continue its focused operations to eliminate the armed group and NPA rebels to preserve its gains in peace and development in Batangas, Cavite and Laguna,” Guzman said. 

There are about 3,900 NPA members based on latest military data.