Alleged NPA rebel killed in Surigao del Norte clashes

A suspected member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in Malimano, Surigao del Norte on Monday morning, the military said.

Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said the clashes that broke out were the first recorded fighting between government forces and communist rebels after President Rodrigo Duterte called off the unilateral ceasefire last Saturday.

READ: Duterte lifts ceasefire with Reds as ultimatum lapses

The President declared a ceasefire against the communists during his State of the Nation Address last July 25.

READ: Duterte announces unilateral ceasefire with communist rebels

The five-minute clashes between the communist rebels and the Army’s 30th Infantry Battalion resulted in the death of one rebel and recovery of an AK-47 automatic rifle, two improvised explosive devices, assorted ammunition, magazines and food.

There were no casualties recorded on the government side, Padilla said.

Police and military troops were responding to NPA extortion complaints before the clashes started near the Malimono City Hall.

Padilla said the rebels were supposed to pick up cash and supplies from the residents of Barangay (village) San Isidro and Binucayan but this was foiled by the state forces. RAM/rga