Two suspected rebels die in clash with gov't troopers

NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, April 20 (PIA) — Two persons believed to be members of the communist New People's Army (NPA)  died in an encounter with the Philippine Army's 15th Infantry Battalion troopers, April 17, at  Purok Yuring, Sitio Dash 7, Barangay Bulwangan in Hinoba-an town.

According to 15th IB Civil Military Operations (CMO) Officer 2Lt. Weann Sandag, the suspected leftist group from members of the Platoon 3, Southwest Front (SWF) of Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor  (KR-NCBS) traded gunfire with the Army for 40 minutes.  

“Relentless efforts of the soldiers forced the enemies to scamper in different directions, leaving their dead comrades behind, and the troop's recovery of two Caliber .45 pistols with magazines and ammunition, one hand grenade, extortion letters, subversive documents, cellphones, and personal belongings. No casualties were recorded on the part of the government forces,” Sandag said.

She said the 15IB men were conducting Community Support Program  (CSP) sustainment operations in the municipality and acted on the report of the NPA's presence in the area.

The two fatalities were brought to Porras Funeral Homes at Purok IV, Brgy 1 of the town. They were identified as alias Micheal/ Nonoy, and alias Ken-ken of Platoon 3, SWF, KR-NCBS.

Lt. Col Erwin Cariño, the 15IB Commander, expressed his gratitude to the residents of Sitio Yuring of Brgy. Bulwangan for giving timely and accurate information on the presence and plans of the NPA terrorist in their locality.

"The encounter is a clear result of the collaborative efforts made by the government and the community. It manifested the success and gains of our Community Support Program (CSP) and expressed the desire of the community to be free from CTG terroristic infiltration and influence. They truly understood and embraced the realms of true progress and development casting away the menace brought about by the NPA terrorist," Cariño said.

He added "We extend our condolences to the bereaved families of the two NPA terrorists who lost their lives fighting for a lost cause. With the help of the local government of Hinoba-an, we can assure assistance and decent burial for the deceased." 

Meanwhile 302nd Brigade Commander, Colonel Leonardo I. Peña, commended the troops of the 15IB for the sacrifices and dedication they have demonstrated.

With the community support program of the Army for the barangay, they now know their role in the Whole-of-Nation Approach and they objectively participate in the government’s campaign to End the Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC), he noted. 

“Our government is always open to help and assist the remaining Communist NPA Terrorists for a peaceful surrender.  It is better for them to embrace peace as they are no longer welcome in the community.  The people of Negros have been longing for peace and progress for a better and brighter future of their children,” Peña said.

As of April 19, Sandag said the identity of the victims remained unknown and will be buried at the expense of the government if no claimant appears. (JSC/Lljr/PIA6 Negros Occidental)

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