9 communist rebels killed in Christmas day clash

Nine members of the New People's Army (NPA) were killed in a bloody Christmas Day clash between government forces and the communist rebel group in Bukidnon.

- MICHAEL PUNONGBAYAN and JOHN UNSON

Soldiers of the military's 403rd Infantry Brigade under the 4th Infantry Division also recovered at least eight firearms from the encounter sites in four Malaybalay City villages yesterday.

The fatalities are yet to be identified. Government troops are conducting operations against remaining members of the NPA unit operating in the area.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief Xerxes Trinidad said soldiers initiated a sustained offensive after receiving reports of NPA presence in the hinterlands of Barangays Can-ayan, Kibalabag, Kulaman and Mapulo.

During the initial scouring, operating troops seized eight firearms from the encounter site. They expect to find more as operations continue in coordination with local communities that are also helping identify the casualties.