2 Reds killed in Davao del Sur clash

MANILA, Philippines — Two New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were killed in a clash with Army troopers in Davao del Sur on Wednesday. 

Lt. Col. Rhojun Rosales, 39th Infantry Battalion commander, said the encounter occurred in Barangay Upper Bala, Magsaysay while the soldiers were conducting combat patrol.  

Rosales said several rebels were believed wounded, citing bloodstains along their escape route. Two high-powered firearms were recovered at the scene.

 In Surigao del Sur, Jepti Acideo, 32, a missionary of the Jehovah’s Witnesses, was killed and two others were wounded in a gun attack by NPA rebels in Barangay Tayaga, Claver also on Wednesday.

The victims were near a community hall when they were shot.