Two suspected NPA rebels killed in clash with gov't troops in Catanduanes

Government troops clashed with suspected New People's Army rebels in Catanduanes on Sunday, resulting in the death of two NPAs, according to the military.

The encounter occurred in Barangay Taopon in the municipality of Panganiban, a statement from the Philippine Army's 9th Infantry Division said.

Troops from the 83rd Infantry Battalion (83IB) and Police Mobile Force Company (PMFC) were conducting combat operations in the area at 1:20 a.m. when at least seven armed men appeared.

The groups exchanged gunfire for 10 minutes leading to the death of the two unidentified rebels.

No one was hurt among the military.

Government troops recovered one AR15 rifle.

The military is conducting a hot pursuit operation to go after the suspected NPAs who fled in different directions.

The Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB) headed by Major General Fernando Trinidad is using full military force against suspected communist rebels to prevent their extortion activities among civilians.

Trinidad however said the government will welcome members of the armed movement who will surrender under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). —KG, GMA News