AFP, NPA clash in Kalinga; 2 soldiers hurt

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Government troopers and New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas clashed in Balbalan, Kalinga on Friday, leaving two soldiers wounded.

Maj. Rigor Pamittan, 5th Infantry Division public affairs chief, said soldiers belonging to the 103rd and 98th Infantry Battalions under the 503rd Infantry Brigade (IB) initially clashed with around 10 members of the NPA’s Kilusang Larangang Gerilya Baggas in Barangay Balbalan Proper.

Pamittan said an M14 rifle, a Springfield rifle, bullets, two improvised explosive devices and bomb materials were recovered at the scene.

Cpl. Jonard Addatu and Pfc. Rojemar Cuyen were wounded as soldiers conducted pursuit operations in Barangay Balatoy.

The military said an M16 rifle, two backpacks, an improvised bomb blasting caps, medicine and subversive documents were among those recovered as the rebels fled.

In Samar, an NPA rebel was killed while another was arrested following an encounter in a forested area in Basey on Thursday.

Lt. Col. Eduardo Meclat identified the fatality as Domeng Pajares, alias Bager.

Melchor Fabula, who was wounded, was taken to a hospital for treatment.

An M16 ridle, two grenade launchers, anti-personnel mines and other war materiel were recovered at the scene.

Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir, 802nd IB commander, said soldiers conducted the operation in response to reports of extortion activities in the area.