Landmine blast at NPA camp in Iloilo wounds soldier

LOILO CITY – A government soldier has been wounded after a landmine exploded during an encounter at a temporary encampment of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Miag-ao town, Iloilo province over the weekend.

The soldier of the Philippine Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion (61 IB) sustained multiple wounds when government troops encountered the NPA in Alimodias village.

Colonel Joel Benedict Batara, 61IB commanding officer, said the soldier is now in stable condition and is recuperating at a medical facility.

Batara said that government troops encountered around 30 NPA rebels belonging to NPA’s Southern Front Committee under the leadership of Joven Ceralvo.

A 30-minute firefight ensued between the government troops and the NPA rebels until they withdrew in different directions.

Meanwhile, Batara sent in more troops to find possible remaining NPA rebels in the area.

“With the help of the populace to end the local armed conflict, the communist terrorist group has nowhere to hide. Our troops can track and find them wherever they are. We will not stop denying their presence in the communities much more allow them to sow fear and terror to the peace-loving people,” Batara added.