18 dead in Agusan del Sur clashes

From Rappler (Jul 15): 18 dead in Agusan del Sur clashes

New People's Army rebels attack the house of a certain Datu Calpit in Prosperidad town



  DAVAO CITY, Philippines (UPDATED) - At least 13 communist guerrillas, 4 other armed men, and a soldier were killed in a series of clashes in the province of Agusan del Sur Tuesday morning, July 15.

Major Christian Uy, spokesman of the military's 4th Infantry Division, said an undetermined number of New People's Army (NPA) rebels attacked the house of a certain Calpito "Datu Calpit" Egua in the village of Sta Irene, Prosperidad town at around 5:30 am.

A fierce firefight followed and lasted for more than 2 hours, Uy said.

The military said the NPA retreated and left behind 12 dead bodies of their comrades while 4 of Egua's armed followers were also killed in the firefight.

Egua, who is believed to be involved in mining, was also wounded in the encounter, Uy said.

About 7 firearms, including 3 M16 rifles and 4 AK47 rifles, were recovered in the scene of the firefight.

Barricade

Government forces from the Army's 401st brigade immediately deployed troops and clashed with the blocking forces of the rebels in Barangay Awa.

The rebels used buses and trucks to barricade the national highway. The highway was eventually opened to commuters.

A soldier was killed while another soldier was injured in the gun battle.

Meanwhile, a separate unit from the military's Special Forces clashed with a different blocking force of the NPA in Barangay Hamogaway in Bayugan City, killing one rebel.

The Philippine Information Agency reported that classes in all levels in Bayugan City and Prosperidad were suspended because of the recent hostilities.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/63382-agusan-del-sur-clashes