2 NPAs dead in Christmas Eve clash in Negros Oriental, Army says

Two communist rebels were killed in a clash with the Philippine Army in Negros Oriental province on Christmas Eve. 3ID

MANILA, Philippines—Two communist rebels were killed in a clash with the Philippine Army in Negros Oriental province on Christmas Eve, the military said on Friday (Dec. 25).

Soldiers from the 11th Infantry Battalion clashed with the New People’s Army rebels in Siaton town on Thursday (Dec. 24), Christmas Eve, according to 3rd Infantry Battalion spokesperson Maj. Cenon Pancito III.

Cenon said soldiers were able to “outmanuever” the rebels “and successfully seized their position.”

Soldiers found the bodies of the slain rebels with their firearms—a Baby Armalite and a .45 caliber pistol—and other items.

Lt. Col. Ramir Redosendo, 11th IB commanding officer, condoled with the families and friends of the slain rebels.

The deaths, he said, could have been avoided if rebels “did not deceive and offer lies to members.”

TSB