The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) claimed that 13 state troopers were killed in separate encounters in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, during the weekend, a claim that was vehemently denied by the Philippine Army.
Marco Valbuena, CPP information officer, in a statement today, January 19, claimed the troopers of the 62nd Infantry Battalion ”got into a misencounter with their local paramilitary unit in the same vicinity and 13 troops were reportedly killed in the ambush as the New People’s Army fighters detonated an explosive against the soldiers.”
“The ambush was the only encounter that day between the NPA and the 62nd IB troops, contrary to claims by the AFP that four encounters took place,” he said, adding that the Army did not disclose that they suffered a number of casualties during the firefight.
Sought for reaction, Maj. Cenon Pancito, 3rd Infantry Division spokesperson, laughed at the claims of the CPP.
“What can we expect from expert liars such that of the CPP-NPA? Since time immemorial, they have mastered deceits. They can no longer fool the people as if their propaganda is still working,” he said.
He insisted that no one was hurt from the government side in the Guihulngan incident.
“In this time where we have advanced technologies, it can never be hidden if ever there is one. Should they insist, please produce photos, much more the bodies. The army will never be ashamed to die fighting for the Philippines and the Filipino people. Death is an honor to us as it solidifies our commitment to service,” he said.
He also challenged the rebel group to “face us squarely and let people judge who the real winners are.”
Pancito also called on the rebels to “surrender while you still have time.”
“We will be fearless in our efforts to crush you and your organization until the last of your fighters fall,” he added.
About 50 families composed of 200 individuals have fled their homes in the wake of intensified government offensives in the area.*