Clash erupts anew between gov't troops and rebels in Abra

Pilar, Abra – The Philippine Army had an encounter with members of the rebel group on Tuesday, April 2, in the dense forest within the area of Barangay Nagcanasan, Pilar, Abra.

According to the Philippine Army, this is the fifth time this year that they had an encounter with the members of the NPA communist terrorist group (CTG).

The initial report disclosed the Philippine Army, particularly the 50th Infantry Battalion troops, proceeded to the area and conducted a security operation following a tip from an anonymous informant.

While there, the encounter transpired. The exchange of gunfire, meantime, lasted for around five minutes before the NPA members fled the area and headed in different directions.

As reported, the rebels were members of the Guerrilla Front North Abra (KLG North Abra) which is under the rule of the Ilocos Cordillera Regional Committee (ICRC).

The Philippine Army expressed gratitude to the community for the timely reportage on the location of the NPAs.

For the rebels, the troops said they are welcome to surrender if they intend to return to the fold of the law.

Due to the incident, classes in public and private schools in Pilar, Abra are suspended today, April 3. The decision was made as a precautionary measure to avoid untoward incidents from happening.

Meantime, Mayor Christopher Beroña said residents near the encounter site already evacuated to the municipal gymnasium