2 NPA guerillas killed in Cagayan identified

By Freddie Lazaro

CAMP MELCHOR F. DELA CRUZ, Upi, Gamu, Isabela – The two New People’s Army rebels killed in an encounter with soldiers in Barangay San Carlos, Gattaran, Cagayan on December 23 have been identified.
    Major Rigor Pamittan, spokesperson of the 5th Infantry Division, said on Wednesday the fatalities were identified through members of their unit who surrendered.
    Pamittan identified the fatalities as Maria Valencia, an amazon from Tatalon, Quezon City, and “Ka Jero” of General Santos City.
    “The real name of Ka Jero is subject for verification and validation,” Pamittan said.
    Their bodies are under custody of Gattaran police while the military is coordinating with families of the two slain communist rebels.
    Major Gen. Audrey L. Pasia, commander of the 5th ID, urged NPA guerillas in Cagayan to surrender.
    Pamittan said they were pursuing NPA remnants in Region 2 or Cagayan Valley.
    On Christmas Day, the 95th Infantry Battalion and 52nd Division Reconnaissance Company seized an R4 rifle, one M-16 rifle, bandoliers, medical paraphernalia, subversive documents, and personal belongings owned by the NPA in Barangay T. Elizaga, Gattaran.