AFP, NPA clash: Hundreds flee homes in Abra town

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — At least 137 families or 483 residents  of Pilar, Abra fled their homes as government troopers clashed with communist rebels in Barangay Nagcanasan on Tuesday.

Pilar Mayor Tyrone Beroña said the displaced families are taking shelter at the municipal gym or staying with their relatives outside their village.

Beroña suspended classes in elementary and high school yesterday to ensure the safety of students.

A report from the Army’s 5th Infantry Division (ID) said a soldier was wounded in the encounter.

Maj. Rigor Pamittan, 5th ID spokesperson, said the soldiers encountered around 15 members of the Kilusang Larangang Gerilya-North Abra of the Ilocos Cordillera Regional Committee of the New People’s Army.

The Philippine Air Force conducted air strikes against the rebels.

It has yet to be determined if there were casualties on the side of the rebels.