Suspected NPA rebel killed in Sultan Kudarat clash, military says

An alleged member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in an encounter with government troops in Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat  on Wednesday, the Philippine Army’s 6th Infantry Division said Thursday.

In a statement, the 6ID said 603rd Infantry Brigade commander Colonel Michael Santos identified the fatality as Kalisa Kumpow, based on the identification card recovered, along with an M16 rifle with one magazine loaded with live ammunition.

According to the 6ID, Kumpow’s remains were turned over to his family.

Santos said the troops encountered about three individuals suspected to be remnants of the Guerilla Front Daguma East and West, Sub-Regional Command Daguma, Far South Mindanao Region.

The 6ID has recorded so far this year a total of 85 rebels who surrendered to the government while five died in encounters, including the recent casualty. — Joviland Rita/BM, GMA News