2 alleged NPA leaders killed in North Cotabato clash —military

Two supposed leaders of rebel armed group New People’s Army (NPA) were killed in an encounter with the state troops in Makilala, North Cotabato on Wednesday, the 10th Infantry Division (10ID) said Thursday.

In a statement, the military identified the fatalities as Roberto Castillote alias “Enoy,” and Jovilito Yambanao alias “Joven."

According to the military, Castillote was allegedly a commanding officer, while Yambanao is “political guide” from the Dismantled Pulang Bagani Command (DPBC) of the communist rebel group.

Also, the military said that Castillote faced arrest warrants for attempted murder, double attempted murder, frustrated murder, murder, slight illegal detention, robbery, robbery with homicide, and violation of the Special Protection Against Child Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination.

He was also behind the ambush of four SOCO personnel in Bansalan, Davao del Sur on March 8, 2017, the 10ID said.

Recovered from the encounter site were an Uzi submachine gun, two improvised landmines, a hand grenade, and a container with gasoline, according to the military.

Since January 1, the 10ID said it has launched operations that resulted in the confiscation of 155 firearms, reduction of 309 communist rebels including 10 who were killed, capture of four rebels, and surrender of 296 rebels and supporters.

Major General Nolasco Mempin, 10ID commander, commended the accomplishment of the troops and vowed they will continue to hunt down communists rebels. —LBG, GMA News