LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines —A teenager died when suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels attacked a daycare center in Barangay Libertad, Cawayan, Masbate on Sunday.

Vincent Pekiro, 15, was hit by a stray bullet when the rebels fired at soldiers of the 2nd Infantry Battalion doing repair work.

Capt. Joash Pramis, 9th Infantry Division public affairs officer, said the soldiers did not return fire for fear that civilians would be caught in the crossfire.

NPA rebels had earlier warned they would attack soldiers conducting peace and development programs in remote areas, including schools and daycare centers.