ILOILO - A suspected member of the New People's Army (NPA) was killed in a clash with government forces in Igbaras, Iloilo on Monday, the military said.

The 61st Infrantry Battalion of the Philippine Army was responding to a report that NPA members were harassing villagers of Barangay Igcabugao when the encounter ensued.

The firefight lasted for about 30 minutes. Recovered from the slain rebel were an improvised explosive device (IED) and ammunition.

Government troops also held 9 others because of their presence in the area. They also found 3 gallons of gasoline.

In August, a pick-up was ambushed by NPA that left an employee of Century Peak Energy Corporation injured. - report from Regi Adosto, ABS-CBN News