Airman killed in clash with rebels in Batangas

MANILA—An airman was killed during an encounter with an estimated 15 New People’s Army (NPA) bandits in Batangas on Monday afternoon.

The clash took place 5:49 p.m. at Barangay Toong, Tuy town, said Southern Luzon Command spokesperson Major Angelo Guzman.

The slain military serviceman was identified as Airman 1st Class Cliff Arvin Alama of the 730th Combat Group, 710th Special Operations Wing.

Alama’s unit is under Joint Task Group “Finisher Warrior”.

Guzman said Alama and 11 other operatives of the 730th Combat Group were on patrol mission when the clash with the rebels took place.

The victim was hit in the left shoulder and was immediately taken to the to the Medical Center-Western Batangas in Balayan, Batangas.

However, Alama was declared dead on arrival at 8:07 p.m. by attending physicians.

Joint Task Group “Finisher Warrior” head Col. Peale John Bondoc immediately ordered for reinforcements and deployed troops for pursuit operations.

Guzman said the Southern Luzon Command will continue its focused operations to eliminate armed groups including the NPA to preserve its gains in peace and development in Batangas, Cavite and Laguna.