Rebels torch construction equipment in Compostela Valley

From Rappler (Apr 21): Rebels torch construction equipment in Compostela Valley

The military says suspected NPA guerrillas torch construction equipment in New Bataan town in the latest of their 'desperate extortion activities'

Suspected communist guerrillas burned a backhoe of a construction company in New Bataan town in Compostela Valley on Sunday evening, April 20, the military said.

The 5th Civil Relations Group said a group of rebels, believed to be from the Guerrilla Front 27 of the New People's Army (NPA), torched the equipment owned by ABA construction company in Barangay Magangit at around 8 pm.

The rebels immediately fled using two motorcycles towards the direction of Maragusan town, the military said.

On April 10, the NPA simultaneously attacked 5 different locations at the massive mining complex of Apex mining company in Maco town, leaving at least 21 vehicles and heavy equipment destroyed.

The NPA also attacked St. Augustine Gold and Copper Ltd in Pantukan town on April 7, destroying several portable drills.

The military claims the attacks were "desperate extortion activities," while the NPA said the punitive actions were directed against the companies for their alleged anti-environment and anti-labor practices.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/56010-rebels-torch-construction-equipment-compostela-valley