Two top CPP-NPA heads, aide slain in Baguio clash

BAGUIO CITY -- - Two New People’s Army leaders including a high- ranking central committee leader of the Communist Party of the Philippines and their aide, were killed here in a firefight with army and police elements early morning Friday in Barangay Queen of Peace around 3:30 a.m.

Slain were Julius Soriano Giron, also known as Zoilo. Tatay and Lakay, CPP chairman in Northern Luzon and member of the CPP-NPA's executive committee; Lourdes Tan Torres also known as Ma. Lourdes Dineros “Tita” Tangco, member of CPP executive committee and their National Health Bureau and an unidentified male serving as Giron’s security aide.

Maj, Carolina Lacuata, regional police information chief bared these in a press statement saying Giron was also head of the group’s National Military Commission and politburo member.

Lacuata said Giron has standing warrants of arrest for rebellion, murder, arson and frustrated murder.

“A firefight ensued when they (slain CPP-NPA officers) resisted and opened fire at the arresting authorities while they were serving the warrant of arrest,” Lacuata said.

Government troops reportedly confiscated an M16 rifle, two Cal .45 handguns, various explosives and war material from the incident area.

According to the PNP press statement, lawmen went to the area following a tip from a member of the communist organization.

The operation was reportedly conducted by police from National Capital Region, Cordillera and Baguio City Police Office including elements from the army’s Northern Luzon Command, 503^rd Brigade, 5Ist Division, and Civil Relations Service.