1 killed, 8 injured in suspected NPA attacks in Iloilo, Camarines Norte

Two separate attacks, allegedly perpetrated by New People's Army rebels, were reported in two provinces on what was supposed to be the first day of the holiday ceasefire between government and communist forces.

A platoon of soldiers pulling out from the field at around 9 a.m. were fired upon by armed communists in Barangay Baay, Labo town in Camarines Norte.

The attackers reportedly opened fire and lobbed what appeared to be an improvised explosive device at the government troops, killing one soldier and injuring six others.

Authorities noted that the military personnel were on their way back to their camp following the declaration of a holiday truce.

The "treacherous act" was condemned by Joint Task Force Bicolandia under the leadership of Major General Fernando Trinidad.

On the other hand, state security forces onboard a patrol vehicle were also ambushed by suspected communist rebels in Tubungan, Iloilo around 9:20 a.m. on Monday.

The police officers were also pulling out from the area, pursuant to the unilateral and reciprocal ceasefire declared by the government, when a landmine was detonated in Barangay Singon.

Two cops were injured while the attackers immediately fled towards another barangay.

"This another atrocity proves the duplicitous talking of these terror organization that after they’ve demanded peace, they deceitfully attacked our troops. They’ve done it again. But this time the whole world is watching and are seeing the real intention of their leaders who are asking for peace— full of lies and deceit," said Major General Roberto Ancan, commander of the Armed Forces Central Command.

"They demand for peace but their actions speaks otherwise. We cannot let them (NPAs) roam around and lord over the lives of our peace-loving people. Our role is to protect our people and secure their communities from these terrorists." he added. — RSJ, GMA News