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NPA responds to 17th IBPA’s Phantom

BAGUIO CITY (Oct. 13) — Members of the New Peoples Army (NPA)- Henry Abraham Command (HAC) launched a counter-offensive operation last September in Baggao, Cagayan Valley in response to the three-month long strike “Operation Phantom” of the 17th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army (IBPA) and the mounting human rights violations of the said troops in Central East Cagayan.

This is according to a statement issued by Salvador del Pueblo, National Democratic Front (NDF) Spokesperson for Northeastern Luzon.

Among the human rights violations cited by del Pueblo are the salvaging of Noel Capili of Cabuluan, Alcala and another farmer from Abulo last March and April respectively. The forced use of minors as guides in combat operations last August and September, and the destruction of farmlands and stealing of animals during military operations were also identified in the HAC statement which was sent via email.

During the armed encounter, the 17th IBPA suffered seven casualties. Six soldiers were wounded and were given appropriate medical attention by NPA after the incident, according to the statement. This, according to del Pueblo, is in line with the respect of the international humanitarian law and the conduct of war. # via NORDIS

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