Militiaman killed, 6 wounded in clash with NPA rebels in North Cotabato

One militiaman was killed and six others were wounded in clashes with communist rebels in Makilala, North Cotabato early Monday, the military said.

Around 20 members of the New People’s Army believed to be from Guerilla Front 72 harassed the Luayon Detachment in Brgy. Luayon past 12 midnight, said Lt. Lea Canseran of Army’s 39th Infantry Battalion.

Three communist rebels were killed and were left in the clash site by their comrades.

The militiaman who was killed was identified as Julito Apala. He was immediately brought to Collado Funeral Homes, Canseran said. His comrade Jimmy Gonzaga, who sustained a major injury, was brought to Kidapawan Doctors Hospital for medical assistance. /je