2 NPA rebels slain as troops overrun camp

PINUKPUK, Kalinga – Army elements are now pursuing New People’s Army guerillas who were part in a gunfight wherein two cadres were killed in an NPA camp at Sitio Top-og, Barangay Ba-ayga, around 5 a.m. on June 2.

Joint elements of 21st Infantry Battalion led by 2nd Lt Engelbert. P. Callao and 51st Military Intelligence Company met the platoon of NPA cadres while on patrol.

A report sent to Maj. Gen. Nestor Z. Ochoa, commander of the Army’s 5th Infantry Division by LTC Antonio R. Lastimado, commanding officer of 21st Infantry Battalion to Camp Melchor F dela Cruz, Upi, Gamu, Isabela disclosed the two slain NPA rebels were seen by civilians being carried away by their comrades as they escaped.

The report said the NPA group was under led by Rudy Daguitan Aka “Pinpin” of Samahang Yunit Pampropaganda and Aantonio Cagwayan Aka “Senyas” of Larangang Yunit Gerilya, Kilusang Larangang Gerilya.

Discovered at the encounter site by the army troops were 15 bunkers containing sacks of rice, personaI belongings and documents of high intelligence value.

Army officials identified the slightly wounded on the government side as 2LT Callao and Pfc Elvis Bautista who were immediately brought to 5ID station hospital for proper treatment.

Ochoa said troops are conducting pursuit operations against the withdrawing rebel group.