Gov’t forces, NPA rebels clash in Samar; soldier wounded

CALIBIGA, Samar – An Army soldier was wounded during an encounter with communist rebels in the hinterland village of Hubasan, Caliba town, Samar, about 10 a.m. on Tuesday.

A bullet hit the right arm of Corporal Eric D. Basa and exited his stomach.

He was later brought to the Eastern Visayas Regional Medical Center in Tacloban City, Leyte where he was in stable condition, said 1Lt. Cherry M. Junia, 8th Infantry Battalion Division Public Affairs Officer.

Junia said soldiers belonging to the Bravo Company of the 87th Infantry Battalion were conducting a reconnaissance patrol when they encountered a band of New People’s Army rebels in Hubasan Village.

A firefight ensued and Basa was hit.

Junia said soldiers had blocked all possible exit points in a bid to capture the rebels.