by Ben Serrano

     November 1, 2010

BUTUAN CITY  - At least tribesman was killed while scores were wounded when some ten suspected New People’s Army members engaged the group of tribesmen headed by certain Datu Bawang in a firefight Sunday afternoon on the eve of All Souls Day in Sitio Daldalikan Creek, Barangay Kinamaybay, Esperanza, Aguasn del Sur

            Official report from Caraga Police Regional Information Office identified the victim as Tata Hulasan, a member of Datu Bawang’s group.

            Police and military reports claimed scores were wounded and died on the New People’s Army communist rebels’ side.

            Police and military reports said Datu Bawang’s group was on their way when some 10 NPA rebels engaged them into a firefight which lasted for about two minutes.

            The police and military report however did not indicate why a tribal group like that of Datu Bawang who was only on their way to their farm was armed with firearms and ammunitions as they engaged the rebel group with firefight and not armed with bolos and plows including carabaos.

            The NPA rebels reportedly withdrew towards Sitio Semuntana, Barangay Calabuan, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur.

          Esperanza town is about 50 kilometers away from Butuan City , the region’s capital.

          Police said they are still investigating the incident. (-30-)