Friday, August 01, 2008
Troops clash with rebels, killing 6 (5:18 p.m.)
MANILA - Philippine officials say three soldiers and three communist rebels have been killed as the guerrillas step up attacks.
Army Lt. Col. Antonio Lastimado said Friday that troops were pursuing New People's Army rebels suspected of burning a cellular phone tower in northern Kalinga province when they clashed, killing three soldiers and wounding one.
Separately, regional police chief Isagani Cuevas said troops raided a house in central Tapaz town where about 20 rebels were resting, triggering a battle that killed two guerrillas.
A rebel was also reported killed in eastern Mauban town, where soldiers overran a guerrilla camp.
The rebels have increased their 40-year-old Maoist insurgency since quitting peace talks four years ago. (AP) |
