Civilian killed, another wounded in Maguindanao clash between military, rebels

A civilian was killed while another one was wounded during the encounter between government troops and suspected New People’s Army members in Buldon, Maguindanao on Thursday, the military said Monday.

In a statement, the Philippine Army 6th Infantry Division’s public affairs office said that the rebels allegedly fired towards a group of farmers near the site during the encounter.

Two Marines were also wounded in the firefight.

Elements of Marine Battalion Landing Team-5 and 63rd Marine Company Force Reconnaissance Group encountered the suspected rebels in Sitio Kapatagan, Barangay Karim in the municipality of Buldon during a clearing operation.

Therebels were allegedly from the remnants of Guerilla Front 53 and 56, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee under a certain Ka Aber, the military said.

“With the information and help coming from the residents of Buldon, our troops were able to locate and intercept the [armed rebels],” said Marine Battalion Landing Team-5 commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Tino Maslan.

A 7.62mm converted M1 Garand rifle was recovered from the site.

After the clash, a pursuit operation was conducted by the military that resulted in the arrest of five alleged NPA members in their hideout in Sitio Dimagalen on Saturday.

The military identified them as:

• Omar Dimalapang Magarang alias Ka Anghel/Miguel - political guide;
• Vedencio E Obsid alias Ka Heron/Alen - former squad leader of GF-4B;
• Ginalo Gargar Iladan alias Ka Gengen/Saysay – medic;
• Erlinda Gablas Manseguiao alias Ka Angga/Lisa – medic and supply officer; and
• Elino Pangasian alias Ka Iko/Tutong.

Authorities confiscated these items from the arrested individuals: two caliber .45 pistols, three magazines with 27 rounds of ammunition for caliber .45 firearm, assorted medicines, and other paraphernalia.

1st Marine Brigade and Naval Task Group Central commander Brigadier General Jonas Lumawag said the NPAs intended to establish a base at the boundaries of Buldon, Maguindanao and Alamada, North Cotabato.

“We will never allow the Communist Terrorists to set a foothold in this part of Maguindanao. The Iranuns are tired of violence and had been longing for peace for decades already,” he said.

Joint Task Force Central and 6th Infantry Division commander Major General Juvymax Uy lauded the efforts of the troops against the communist rebels.

“Your efforts to track down and thwart any plans of the NPAs within your area of operation is a clear manifestation of your selfless service and dedication to protect our communities from the atrocities of said group,” he said. —Joviland Rita/KG, GMA News