1 suspected NPA rebel killed, 4 others captured in Negros Oriental

A suspected member of the New People's Army died in an encounter with soldiers in Negros Oriental on Saturday, the Philippine Army said.

The clash occurred in Sitio Manlibod, Barangay Sandayao in Guihulngan City.

According to the military, the 62nd Infantry “Unifier” Battalion was there to inspect and distribute financial aid and medicines to all 24 CAA Patrol Bases and to assess damage from Typhoon Odette. While in the Imelda Patrol Base and Sandayao Patrol Base, a concerned civilian said there was an armed group in the area extorting residents.

The battalion then proceeded to the area, where a firefight ensued. One alleged NPA member was killed, while four others were captured.

Seized from the suspects were one KG9 with one steel magazine containing 23 rounds of live ammunition, one .45 caliber pistol, one back pack, several rounds of ammunition, and other CTG terror documents.

"With continuous support of the populace, we are positive that insurgency in this part of the region will soon come to an end. The captured NPA members is a clear manifestation that this terrorist group does not really care with the lives of their comrades," Major General Benedict Arevalo said. — Ma. Angelica Garcia/BM, GMA News