Soldier killed in clash with communist rebels in Isabela

MANILA, Philippines – One soldier was killed and three others were wounded in a clash between military and communist rebels in the province of Isabela Tuesday night, the military said.

A report from the Army’s 5th Infantry Division said the soldiers were conducting security patrol in Balagan village in the town of San Mariano when they encountered the rebels which sparked the hour-long firefight.

The soldiers were able to recover two improvised explosive devices and six backpacks with alleged subversive documents.

The slain soldier was identified as Private First Class Greisman Atalli. The wounded soldiers, who were brought to the station hospital and later at the V Luna Medical Center in Quezon City, were identified as Private Rafael Langao, Private First Class Roque Ganalon and Corporal Steve Bimmoy.

The communist members were believed to be members of Sangay ng Partido sa Platun under communist leader Joey Ramos.