8 rebels, 1 soldier killed in Abra clash, Army says

Eight suspected communist rebels and one government soldier were killed following a clash in the northern Philippine province of Abra Monday morning, the commander of the Philippine Army said. In a text message to reporters, Lt. Gen. Arturo Ortiz said around 7:45 a.m., patrolling elements of the 41st Infantry Battalion engaged about 20 New People's Army rebels in Barangay Caganayan in Tineg town. Apart from the bodies of the slain rebels, the operating troops also recovered eight high-powered firearms. The identity of the fallen soldier, however, was not disclosed. Ortiz said two government aircraft were deployed to insert additional troops and provide close air support to the ground forces. — RSJ, GMA News