NPA suffers major blow amid clash, says Army

BACOLOD CITY — The military on Monday urged remaining New People’s Army rebels on Negros Island to surrender after seven suspected insurgents were killed in clashes with government troops Sunday.

Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Michael Samson said in a statement that the operation “should serve as a wake-up call” to those still supporting the communist group.

“We will relentlessly pursue and neutralize all armed rebels. The door to peace remains open, surrender while you still have the chance,” Samson said.

The firefights occurred between 5:30 a.m. and 6:50 a.m. in the mountainous area of Barangay Tapi, Kabankalan City.

Killed were Reniel Locsin Cellon, Mary Jane Maguilat, Jhon Isidor Supelanas, and a person identified as “Pitong,” all from the NPA’s Southwest Front, as well as Jhunrey Mejares, Glendel Tinio Mejares, and Charity Amacan, from the Southeast Front.  

The Philippine Army said both rebel fronts had been previously declared dismantled.

According to the 3rd Infantry Division, troops from the 11th, 15th, and 47th Infantry Battalions engaged the NPA remnants after receiving information from local residents.

Troops recovered six M16 rifles, one with an M203 grenade launcher, and a KG9 submachine gun after the gunbattle.  

Brig. Gen. Joey Escanillas, commander of the 302nd Infantry Brigade based in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental, praised the troops for the operation, which resulted in no government casualties. He also credited community cooperation.

“We urge the public to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with our forces to bring an end to the local communist armed conflict,” Escanillas said.

Lt. Gen. Fernando Reyeg, commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Visayas Command, said the operation dealt a “major blow” to the NPA, bringing the Visayas region closer to stability.

“We will continue to press on the fight to end the local communist armed conflict in the Visayas. As such, we call on the few remaining members of the terrorist group to lay down their arms and return to the fold of the law,” Reyeg said.