Soldiers, NPA rebels clash in Surigao del Sur

MANILA, Philippines—Government troops clashed with about 20 New People’s Army rebels in  Surigao del Sur Tuesday, a military spokesman said.

Colonel Leopoldo Galon of the Eastern Mindanao Command said a 20-minute firefight ensued after the Army’s Scout Ranger troops on community patrol led by Captain  Joven  Puyongan encountered the rebels in Barangay Lobo in Cantilan at around 12:30 a.m.

The soldiers recovered one carbine rifle, landmine components, H/H radio, AK47 ammos, three celphones and personal belongings of the rebels, Galon added.

There were no casualties on the government side.