MANILA, Philippines — A communist rebel and a soldier were killed in a clash in Zamboanga del Norte province Friday, the Army said.
Major Ronald Suscano, public affairs officer of the 1st Infantry Division, said troops of “Joint Task Force Zampelan were conducting a “strike operation” in Barangay Isidro, Sergio Osmeña town when they encountered the New People’s Army guerrillas.
The rebels retreated after 15 minutes leaving behind their fatality and an AK-47 magazine.
“One of our soldiers also died in the firefight,” Suscano said.