2 NPA rebels killed in Catanduanes clash

MANILA, Philippines—Two communist rebels were killed in an encounter with government troops in Catanduanes Friday afternoon, the Philippine Army said.

Reports from 9th Infantry Division Commander Major General Romeo Calizo said troops from the 83rd Infantry Battalion encountered about 14 New People’s Army rebels in Manambrag village in San Andres town at about 3:30 p.m.

The firefight lasted for about 10 minutes, and the rebels fled in different directions.

Recovered from the site were one M635 rifle, one M14 rifle, 15 assorted ammunition, explosive device, cellphone and documents.

Pursuit operations were being conducted by the government troops.