Gov’t troops clash with suspected NPA rebels in North Cotabato

KIDAPAWAN CITY – Army soldiers from the 39th Infantry Battalion clashed with suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in the remote village of Makilala, North Cotabato on Tuesday.

Superintendent Bernard Tayong, spokesperson for North Cotabato Police Office, said based on reports reaching them, the soldiers were conducting combat patrol in Barangay Luayon, when they were fired upon by suspected NPA rebels under the Guerrilla Front 72.

He said there was no report on casualties or displaced residents yet.

Lieutenant Colonel Rhojun Rosales, the 39th IB commander, said at least 30 rebels were involved in the clash in Sitio Kapatagan, which took place at 10:40 a.m.

“The firefight is still ongoing,” he said, adding that more troops had been sent to the area. /lb