Soldiers clash with NPA rebels in Iloilo town

By Jennifer P. Rendon

No one was reported injured or killed after Philippine Army soldiers and suspected New People’s Army (NPA) traded shots afternoon of June 19, 2022 in a hinterland village of Leon, Iloilo.

Troops from the 61st Infantry Battalion proceeded to Sitio Langka, Barangay Danao, Leon, after learning that around seven armed rebels were spotted in the area.

Captain Kim Apitong, 3rd Infantry Division spokesperson, said that the suspected rebels could be members of Sibat (SYP) Platoon of the Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay’s Southern Front under Jose Jerry Tacaisan alias Miller.

The military personnel and rebels engaged in a one-minute firefight.

“It was quick. They were in the area for non-combat purposes,” Apitong said.

Following the elections, the rebels switched to recruitment mode.

“They were probably doing propaganda works and into small-time extortion activities among villagers,” Apitong said.

After the firefight, the rebels reportedly withdrew towards Stio Tabionan, Barangay Bucari, Leon.