1 killed as NPA rebels attack Army outpost

TAGUM CITY, Philippines—A civilian was killed when New People’s Army rebels fired at an Army outpost in Panabo City, Davao del Norte,  on Monday, a military official said Tuesday.

Captain Nathaniel Morales, information officer of the Army’s 1003rd Infantry Brigade based in Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte, said Elias Acero succumbed to gunshot wounds after NPA rebels shot at the command post of the Army’s 69th Infantry Battalion in Dalisay village around 8:30 a.m.

The attack came as a lecture on peace and development was ongoing at the battalion headquarters in the village, according to Morales.

“The victim was riding on a dump truck that passed by the adjacent road and was on his way to Panabo City proper,” said Morales.

Soldiers responded and returned fire at the enemy position believed some 200 meters from the rear command post, sparking a brief firefight. The rebels then fled.

Acero died upon reaching the nearest hospital, Morales added.

Colonel Buenaventura Pascual, 1003rd Infantry Brigade commander, condemned the incident.