Military ready for more NPA attacks after deadly ComVal encounter
THE MILITARY in the Davao Region is expecting the communist New People’s Army (NPA) to intensify its aggression following the encounter Wednesday that left eight rebels and one soldier dead. Col. Gilbert F. Saret, 1001st Brigade deputy commander, said in a statement his unit is closely monitoring the activities of the NPA members after the 30-minute clash in Laak, Compostela Valley (ComVal) morning of July 12. Mr. Saret said the encounter was the result of a military operation that was carried out after they received information that the rebels were consolidating in the area. “We know they are consolidating and that they are planning attacks,” he said. “We will not lower our guards,” he added, even as the government and the National Democratic Front, the communist coalition, have been pursuing peace negotiations. — Carmelito Q. Francisco
