Rebel killed in clash

By Mar S. Arguelles LEGAZPI CITY --- A suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebel was killed during an encounter with Army troopers on Tuesday, June 19, in Barangay Villa Belen, a hinterland village in Capalonga town in Camarines Norte, report reaching the Philippine Army 9th Infantry Division said. The identity of the slain rebel has not yet been made available, Army Capt. Joash Pramis, 9th ID spokesperson said. The clash occurred at about 2:30 p.m. Tuesday when Army soldiers engaged a 20-man rebel group in a fierce gun battle that resulted to the death of a communist rebel who was left behind by his comrades who fled the battle scene. Soldiers also recovered from the scene of the battle two M16 assault rifles, assorted ammunition, medical instruments, 5 blasting caps and personal belongings. Pramis said no casualties were reported on the government troopers’ side.