Rebel official resists arrest, killed in Quezon shootout
LUCENA CITY — A high-ranking official of the Communist Party of the Philippines- New People’s Army (CPP- NPA) was killed in a shootout with security forces out to arrest him in Bgy. Lutucan Malabag, Sariaya Quezon.
Quezon police director Col. Ledon Monte identified the slain rebel leader as Isagani Valencia Isita alias “Alkin/Sid/Gani/Shoge,” a resident of Padre Garcia, Batangas.
Monte disclosed that Isita was a ranking official of Sub-Regional Military Area (SRMA) 4C under Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee (STRPC).
He said the slain rebel leader, who was operating in Quezon and Batangas provinces, has been facing string cases of murder, arson, violations of Anti- Terrorism Act and direct assault upon agents of persons in authority.
Monte said Isita was killed after the accused resisted arrest and traded shots with the combined members of the police and military who were about to serve a warrant for his arrest.
“Using a rifle and a pistol, Isita opened fire at the approaching lawmen, prompting our officers to fire back, which resulted to his death,” said Monte.
Lawmen rushed the wounded rebel leader to the hospital but was declared dead on arrival.
Isitas’ remains were claimed by his family in Batangas.
Monte said Isita was located by the authorities at his safe house through the help of village folks in the area.
“This is one good effect after Quezon was declared insurgency- free province. A part of the agreement that we have signed says that residents in the villages should report to authorities the presence of the remaining rebels in the province. Now it works,!” said Monte.
