Soldier killed as NPA attacks Kalinga detachment ahead of unilateral truce

MANILA, Philippines — One soldier was killed and three other militiamen were wounded as the New People’s Army (NPA) attacked a military detachment in Kalinga, a day before the latter starts observing its unilateral ceasefire.

About 30 communist rebels raided the Ag-agama CAFGU (Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit) Active Auxiliary Patrol Base in Brgy. Western Uma, Lubuagan town on Sunday morning, a statement from Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom) said.

One NPA rebel was also killed.

“The indiscriminate attack of the NPA, while the people are preparing for coming of the Christmas season, manifests the rebel groups’ disregard to the welfare and well-being of the people. Additionally, the CPP-NPA broke their own vow of unilateral ceasefire for these coming Christmas season,” Nolcom chief Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Salamat said in a statement.

He also reminded the soldiers to be more vigilant this holiday season.

NPA rebels staged its attack on the Kalinga detachment a day before its unilateral ceasefire takes effect from December 24 to 26 and from December 31 to January 1.

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) will also celebrate its 50th anniversary on December 26.

The government earlier said it will not suspend its offensive military operations for the holidays because it would only give chance for the rebels to regroup.

Last week, the NPA overran a military detachment in Agusan del Sur and abducted 12 militiamen and two soldiers. /kga