NPA killed, firearms seized in Masbate clash with PA

By Connie Calipay

LEGAZPI CITY --- A member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed while high-powered firearms were seized in a clash in Barangay Tubog, Pio V. Corpuz, Masbate province on Tuesday, the 9th Infantry Division (9ID) said.

In a report, Maj. Frank Roldan, 9ID Public Affairs Office chief, said the encounter ensued after troops responded to the reports of residents about the presence of armed men in their village.

Based on the initial report, the government troops encountered more than 12 NPA members led by Bobby Cañete, also known as Den-den/Bugas, of the Komiteng Larangang Guerilla South, Sub-Regional Committee 4.

Roldan said no casualties were reported on the side of the government troops, while an unidentified rebel was killed during the 20-minute firefight.

“We are still waiting for the identification of the NPA member since our troops are still at the encounter site,” he said in a message.

After the insurgents withdrew, soldiers recovered several firearms, including an M14, M16, and M653 rifles at the clash site. (PNA)