Suspected NPA rebel killed in Apayao clash

A suspected New People's Army rebel was killed following a clash with government troops in Apayao Friday, a military spokesman said.

In a statement, Lieutenant Colonel Isagani Nato of the Armed Forces Northern Luzon Command said around 11:30 a.m., troops from the 17th Infantry Battalion engaged about 20 insurgents at Sitio Aggingay Bassit in Barangay Malayugan in Flora town.

The firefight lasted for 15 minutes.

The rebel-fatality was identified as one Danao Gualo Besuitan based on the recovered wallet in his possession. An M4 rifle was also recovered by the operating troops.

Nato said pursuit operations are ongoing against the remaining rebels.

The clash came as talks between the government and the National Democratic Front remained stalled.

On Thursday night, President Rodrigo Duterte said talks may resume in July.

“Istoryahon nako ang mga rebelde [I will be talking to the rebels]. I’m talking to [Jose Maria] Sison. We will start the talks maybe [in] July,” the President said, referring to the Communist Party of the Philippines founder. — RSJ, GMA News