5 suspected NPA members killed, soldier wounded in Bohol clash —military

Five suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed in a clash with military troops in Bilar, Bohol on May 21, the Philippine Army said Tuesday.

In a statement, 3rd Infantry Division spokesperson Captain Cenon Pancito III said military troops encountered 11 communist terrorist group members while conducting combat operations at Barangay Cabacnitan.

This led to the death of three suspected members while Pancito said the remaining members withdrew towards the eastern direction.

Two other members were killed after military troops encountered the withdrawing CTG members while conducting blocking operations near the area.

One soldier was wounded in the encounter and was brought to the hospital. He is now in stable condition.

Authorities also retrieved two M16, five Cal. 45, one Bandolier, two M16 Mag Short with 30 rounds, among others.

Pancito said the 47th Infantry Brigade has coordinated with Batuan Police Station and Bilar Police Station for the conduct of checkpoints.—Joahna Lei Casilao/AOL, GMA News