Philippines: Marine killed in ambush by leftist rebels

By Roy Ramos

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (AA) - A Philippine marine has been killed and 8 others wounded in an ambush that occurred after negotiators agreed to restart peace talks, according to the military Tuesday.

Capt. Arvin Encinas, 6th Infantry Division spokesman, said in a statement that the 20-minute clash took place in Sultan Kudarat province in the troubled southern Mindanao region Monday.

The platoon was reportedly conducting security patrols in Kalamansig town following reports of recruitment activities by the New People’s Army (NPA) when they were ambushed by around 10 rebels.

The rebels quickly withdrew after the attack.

Earlier this month, the government and the National Democratic Front -- the political front of the NPA -- agreed to re-open negotiations during back channel talks in the Netherlands.

Skirmishes, however, have continued across the Philippines.

Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza said last week that before both parties can reinstate unilateral ceasefire declarations -- which were called off following clashes earlier this year -- they would need time to update combat forces on the ground.

Earlier peace negotiations begun under President Rodrigo Duterte broke down last month after the two sides accused each other of ceasefire violations.

The insurgency has been running since 1968. It has claimed 30,000 lives, according to the military, and stagnated development.