NPA leader, member killed in Albay clash with cops

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 4, 2023): NPA leader, member killed in Albay clash with cops (By Connie Calipay)

SLAIN REBEL. Rizaldy Perdigon, a high-ranking leader of the New People's Army (NPA) and head of Rebolusyonaryong Buwis sa Kaaway na Uri-Albay, was among the two NPA rebels killed in an encounter with cops in Barangay Bascaran, Daraga, Albay on Tuesday (Oct. 3, 2023). The bodies of the two suspects were brought to Bejer Funeral Homes in Legazpi City. (Photo courtesy of PRO5)

LEGAZPI CITY – The Police Regional Office-5 (PRO5)-Bicol on Wednesday identified the two New People's Army (NPA) rebels killed in an encounter with police operatives in Barangay Bascaran, Daraga, Albay on Tuesday.

In a report, Lt. Col Malu Calubaquib, PRO5 spokesperson, identified the suspects as Rizaldy Perdigon, a high-ranking leader of the NPA and head of Rebolusyonaryong Buwis sa Kaaway na Uri-Albay, and Allan Balde Leron, a member of Platoon 3, Sub-Regional Committee 3, Bicol Regional Party Committee, who had a pending case for violation of Republic Act 11479, the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020.

"These two deliberately fired shots at the personnel on duty at Bascaran Police Assistance Center (BPAC), endangering the safety and welfare of the public. Fortunately, no government personnel or members of the public sustained injuries, as the police force responded swiftly and effectively countered their actions," Calubaquib said.

She said Perdigon faced multiple pending charges, including three counts of attempted murder, 13 counts of attempted homicide, four counts of murder and destructive arson, and was linked to heinous crimes, including targeted killings, ambushes of both police officers and civilians and extortion activities targeting the public and local businesses.

"Leron, during their attacks at Bascaran Police Assistance Center, was responsible for driving the motorcycle used in the assaults," Calubaquib said.

The cadavers of the two suspects were brought to Bejer Funeral Homes, in Barangay Bigaa, Legazpi City.

Calubaquib said the successful neutralization of the two communist terrorist group members signifies a blow to the rebel organization.

In a statement, PRO5 Regional Director Brig. Gen. Westrimundo Obinque said justice has been served for the victims of the slain rebels.

The two NPA rebels were killed in an encounter with policemen that ensued after they fired at the BPAC building, prompting the government forces to retaliate.

Recovered from the site were various firearms, ammunition and a motorcycle.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1211155