6 suspected NPA rebels killed in Sultan Kudarat clash — military

Six suspected New People’s Army rebels were killed in a series of encounters in Bagumbayan, Sultan Kudarat on Thursday morning, the Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) said Friday.

The military did not provide the names of the fatalities.

In a statement, Joint Task Force Central commander Major General Roy Galido said the 7th Infantry Battalion and around 10 suspected rebels clashed at Sitios Sandigan and Mudti in Barangay Chua.

The military said the rebels were under Dennis Dulonan or “Kalbo,” alleged Executive Committee member and Deputy Secretary of the remnants of East Daguma Front, Sub-Regional Committee Daguma, Far South Mindanao Region.

Dulonan has a standing warrant of arrest for arson and frustrated murder, it added.

Recovered from the area were an AK47, three M16 rifles, magazines, propaganda materials, and personal belongings.

“This recent encounter exemplifies that the CTG capabilities are significantly degraded,” WestMinCom acting commander Brigadier General Arturo Rojas said.

“Rest assured that we will sustain our current campaign and strengthen our partnership with all stakeholders to destroy the remaining threat groups who refuse to return to the folds of the law,” he added. — Joviland Rita/RSJ, GMA Integrated News