(Eagle News) — The military and alleged members of the New People’s Army clashed in Negros Occidental on Monday, April 15.
In a statement, the military said the firefight ensued near an alleged NPA camp in San Carlos City around 8 a.m.
This was after several of the rebels opened fire at members of the 79th IB’s Spearhead Division who were on patrol following reports from residents the rebels would extort in the area.
The rebels fled after the encounter, which took place after President Rodrigo Duterte ordered government officials to “work on” the resumption of peace talks with the Communist rebels.
The President had said there should however be a ceasefire in place and no extortion.
He said the rebels should also be confined in their camps.
Recovered from the alleged NPA camp were a solar panel and other personal items, among others.