Mabini, Compostela Valley – A clash last 11 March 2017 between troops of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and New People’s Army (NPA) rebels has left over 100 residents of Mabini displaced. After being caught in the crossfire, they sought refuge at the Tabuyuan Elementary School.
The armed encounter was between the 46th Infantry Battalion (IB) of the AFP and rebels of the NPA which started at around 2:00 P.M. in Sitio Magpalusong in Mabini, Compostela Valley. The 46th IB were responding to reports that a lawless armed group were committing acts of intimidation and coercion by setting up roadblocks in the area. The security operation went awry and a fire-fight ensued, lasting for 15 minutes and leaving three soldiers wounded from debris after an improvised explosive device was detonated by the rebel forces.
The 46th IB, the Provincial Government of Compostela Valley, and the Local Government of Mabini have extended assistance to the affected residents by delivering provisions and services. They also advised residents to return to their homes following the suspension of offensive operations on 12 March 2017.
