Gov’t soldier slain in clash with NPA rebels in Apayao

GAMU, Isabela—A 24-year-old Army soldier was killed in a firefight on Thursday, June 30, between New People’s Army rebels and government soldiers in Apayao province, the military said Friday.

Killed was Army Private Kobee Wackisan, a member of the 52nd Division Reconnaissance Company and a native of Tanudan town in Kalinga province, Army Capt. Rigor Pamittan, 5th Infantry Division spokesperson, told the Inquirer.

The gun battle took place in the mountains of Conner town and lasted for 30 minutes. The 14-member communist rebels later withdrew.

Pamittan said the rebels were believed to be members of the NPA guerrilla front operating in the Apayao-Abra areas.

Major General Laurence Mina, 5th Infantry Division commander, condoled with the family of Wackisan, “who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the name of service and in protecting the people of Apayao against the atrocities of the (communist rebels).” INQ

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