PostHeaderIcon Eight soldiers killed in a bloody skirmish with NPA in Surigao





The encounter between the military and New People’s Army (NPA) which caused the death of 12 people including 8 military soldiers, among them a police officer, occurred without much public notice. Another 12 soldiers were injured in a remote mountainous community in Lanuza, Surigao del Sur. The fighting with the communist militants was eclipsed by the visit of US Sec. of State Hillary Clinton in Manila who pledged support for the country's anti-insurgency campaign.

“Eight soldiers from the Philippine Army’s 58th Infantry Battalion, a police officer from the 1405th Provincial Police Mobile Group, a member of the Special Cafgu Active Auxiliary (SCAA), and two security personnel from logging firm, Surigao Development Corp (SUDECOR), died when they clashed with alleged members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Pakwan village on Wednesday.” ---GMAnews.TV (11/13/09)

The senseless deaths and injuries of the brave men didn't have news coverage as much as Clinton’s visit and the release of Columban missionary Michael Sinnott---- kidnapped last month in Pagadian City in Southern Philippines. The soldiers died from gunshot wounds and from injuries inflicted by landmines and bombs exploded by the communist rebels.

On a military mission, the army soldiers were ambushed by about 100 NPA rebels. The deaths and injuries which followed were barely noticed by the public. Obviously, the bloody encounter indicates the fragility of peace in Mindanao. More has to be done for peace. The casualties suffered by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) indicate the cost of keeping freedom and tranquility in the islands.(Photo Credit: abs-cbnnews.com x 2) =0=

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