Security operations ongoing in Saranggani versus rebel force that terrorized IDP community

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 17): Security operations ongoing in Saranggani versus rebel force that terrorized IDP community

Security operations are now being conducted against a New People’s Army (NPA) band that terrorized and drove away a community of indigenous people (IDP) living in Barangay San Juan, Malungon town, Saranggani province.

Capt. Rey Balibagoso, 1002nd Infantry Brigade public affairs officer, said the NPA harassment started last Friday when a rebel group under Manuel Garduque alias “Dodong Sidlak”, reportedly of the Guerilla Front 75 arrived and threatened the civilian population there with harm.

This took place shortly after the rebels abducted two “barangay tanods” as people in the above-mentioned community refused to support the NPA movement.

The second incident of rebel harassment took place Monday night when NPA fighters sporadically fired shots in the air.

The civilians fled the area after the rebels spread word that the military will come in force to make war with them.

Balibagoso said that around 200 B’laan tribe members are now sheltered at the San Juan barangay hall due to this NPA atrocity.

Steps are also being conducted to feed, shelter and assist these displaced IDPs, he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=654208