Davao Oriental, Philippines – A firefight in the vicinity of Mati City resulted in a casualty from the New People’s Army (NPA) and two wounded troops of the Philippine Army.

On Thursday, 30 March 2017, in Barangay Tagbinonga at around 11:50 a.m., combined troops from the 20th and 66th Infantry Battalion on combat operations clashed with the said NPA rebels.

Enemy positions were shelled with 105mm artillery rounds as combat support. After a 30-minute exchange of fire, the rebels retreated leaving their dead comrade. The slain NPA rebel was brought to the nearest city for identification.

The Philippine Army will continue operations for stability against lawless groups that undermine a democratic way of life, said 20th Infantry Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala.