AFP: 2 suspected rebels killed in Negros Occidental, Masbate clashes

An alleged member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in an encounter in Candoni town in Negros Occidental, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reported on Wednesday.

In a statement, AFP said concerned citizens informed them that there were suspected NA fighters in Barangay Gatuslao on May 3.

Members of the Philippine Army's 15th Infantry Battalion under the 3rd Infantry Division then proceeded to the area and encountered about five supposed rebels.

This led to a firefight which lasted for 15 minutes and led to the suspected rebel's death.

"15th Infantry Battalion and Gatuslao Police conducted a pursuit operation to locate and capture the fleeing terrorists," the AFP said.

Seized from the scene were an M16 rifle, caliber .45 pistol, various magazines, and rounds of ammunition.

The AFP said one soldier was hurt in the encounter but was immediately given first aid and is now safe from danger.

In Palanas, Masbate, the Philippine Army’s 2nd Infantry Battalion had a five- minute firefight with around five suspected NPA fighters in the vicinity of Barangay San Isidro.

One alleged combatant was killed. The rebel was believed to be a member of the communist terrorist group operating under a leader called "Warren," according to the military.

Confiscated from the encounter site was a .357 revolver. — Mel Matthew Doctor/BM, GMA News