5 soldiers hurt in landmine blast in Zamboanga del Sur

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — At least five soldiers were injured during a landmine explosion set off by communist rebels in Lakewood, Zamboanga del Sur on Tuesday, the military reported.

Lieutenant Colonel Victor Tangawhon, commander of the 53rd Infantry Battalion, said his men were conducting security operations in Sitio Ludiaw in Barangay (village) Dagum following reports New People’s Army rebels have been conducting house to house visits.

Tangawhan said when soldiers entered a neighborhood in Ludiaw, an explosion took place and hit five of his men.

Their injuries were minor, he said.

Tangawhan said a fierce firefight lasting about two hours ensued.

He said a number of the rebels had either been killed or wounded in the clash.