3 NPA rebels slain in Quezon clash with soldiers

MANILA,Philippines — Three communist rebels were killed in an encounter with soldiers in Mauban, Quezon on Tuesday.

Col. Alex Rillera, 202nd Infantry Brigade commander, said the clash with around 10 New People’s Army (NPA) rebels occurred in Barangay Abu Abu at around 8:40 a.m.

Rillera said a 9mm pistol was recovered at the scene.

Brig. Gen. Arnulfo Burgos Jr., 2nd Infantry Division commander, said it was the fourth gunfight with NPA rebels in the area since last month.

Burgos said pursuit operations for the rebels, which are supported by a K9 unit, are ongoing.