With bloodstains found in the encounter site, Cadil said they suspect the New People's Army suffered heavy casualties aside from the two confirmed fatalities.
Two leaders of the New People’s Army (NPA) and a soldier were reportedly killed in another clash between Communist rebels and government troops in Bontoc, Southern Leyte Wednesday (August 18).
The Philippine Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade reported that the hour-long clash occurred around 11:30 a.m. when soldiers encountered a band of 11 rebels belonging to the remnants of NPA’s Island Committee Levox, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee in Barangay Lawagan.
“We have been receiving reports that the two killed rebels are known commanders of the remaining NPA fighters in Leyte Island. We are currently in talks with their families and former rebels to gather more information,” Capt. Kaharudin Cadil, Philippine Army 802nd Infantry Brigade spokesperson, said.
With bloodstains found in the encounter site, Cadil said they suspect the enemy suffered heavy casualties aside from the two confirmed fatalities.
The official has refused to name the slain soldier pending notification of his family.
Another soldier is being treated for sustaining minor wounds after the clash.
The injured personnel were immediately brought to the hospital to receive medical attention.
14th Infantry Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Ernesto dela Rosa theorized that there could actually be more casualties on the side of the rebels.
During clearing operations, soldiers of the 14th Infantry Battalion recovered an M16 rifle, three backpacks, 10 tents, and personal belongings.
The rebels were hiding in the jungles of Bontoc as government forces intensified their combat operations.
The military managed to locate the small NPA lair based on tips from villagers.
The encounter site is near the boundary of Hilongos, Leyte where NPA remnants were frequently sighted by locals.
Brig. Gen. Zosimo Oliveros of the 802nd Infantry Brigade had ordered the deployment of additional forces to capture the rebels whomanaged to escape during the encounter.
(JKA/With report from PNA)
Tags: #OpinYon8, #SouthernLeyte, #ArmedForcesofthePhilippines, #NewPeoplesArmy