More than 200 people who fled a war-torn town in the south received relief and medical assistance from Religious groups and non-government organizations over the weekend, a local leader said today.

The evacuees from Zapanta valley are now temporarily staying at nearby Bangayan in Agusan del Norte province.

“The majority of them are suffering from stress and emotional problems considering it has been more than one week now since they were home for fear of being caught in the crossfire between New People’s Army rebels and the military,” said Genasque Enriquez, head of Kasalo, a private group.

Village official Evangeline Tiape said rice, canned goods and medicines were given to evacuees.

“It was a whole day affair and we are happy that at last those who were ill have been checked up and given medicines, because that was really our problem since there was no help coming from the government although they promised to provide some soon,” Tiape said.

The military said two soldiers have been killed and five others wounded in clashes with communist rebels in the last week in Zapanta valley.

Bangayan village officials said Zapanta valley is a communist lair with at least 800 rebels operating in the area.