Sun.Star: NPAs capture soldier in Compostela

DAVAO CITY -- The Army soldier abducted by New People's Army (NPA) guerillas after a firefight in Monkayo, Compostela Valley last Friday was seen alive and in the company of the rebels Sunday. Private First Class Marjun Gatela was leading his squad in a combat patrol at Sitio Kadapang in Barangay San Isidro last August 10 when they encountered about 20 rebels from the Front Committee 2 under Vicente Taoy alias Kumander Benal. A firefight ensued, resulting in the death of militiaman Roland Dandan and capture of Gatela. An unidentified paramilitary trooper was wounded in the incident. Major Randolph Cabangbang, spokesman of the military's Eastern Mindanao Command, told Sun.Star Davao Sunday that Gatela was sighted at around 6 a.m. in Barangay Casoon, Monkayo in the company of rebels. Gatela was reportedly seen in the company of about 18 rebels from the Front Committee 3 under Ka Jazzy. They were last sighted in the vicinity of Sitio Sapdan. A platoon from the Army's 28th Infantry Battalion was immediately dispatched to pursue the rebels and rescue Gatela. Monkayo Vice Mayor Avelino Cabag is said to be negotiating with the rebels for the safe release of the abducted soldier. - Sun.Star