Seven alleged remnants of the New People’s Army were killed in a series of encounters with government soldiers in Barangay Tapi, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental, early Sunday morning.
Recovered from them were six M-16 rifles, one of which was equipped with an M-203 grenade launcher, one KG9 submachine gun, and other war materials, Col. Erwin Rommel Lamzon, Philippine Army 3rd Infantry Division spokesman, said.
The Army is looking into the possibility that the slain rebels were engaged in alleged election related extortion activities such as requiring candidates to obtain permits to campaign and safe conduct passes from them, he said.
The Army’s 11th, 15th and 47th Infantry Battalions launched a focused military operation after receiving reports of the presence of the rebels in the area, Lamzon said.
A series of firefights broke out, beginning at 5:30 a.m., followed by clashes at 5:35 a.m., 6:09 a.m., and 6:50 a.m., he said.
Killed were Jhonrey Mejares alias Jai and JR – political instructor/political guide; Glendel Tinio Mejares alias Ayin – medical officer; and Charity Amacan alias Cha and Leah – squad leader/former secretary of the NPA’s South East Front;
Reniel Locsin Cellon alias Kumpo and Adie – squad leader and former commanding officer; Mary Jane Maguilat, alias Shonie, Chinchin and Shedi – vice squad leader; Jhon Isidor Supelanas alias Dalia – political instructor; and alias Pitong – medical officer, all of the South West Front, Lamzon said.
Maj. Gen. Michael G. Samson, 3rd ID commander, lauded the troops for their swift and effective action.
“This operation should serve as a wake-up call to those who still choose to support or join the CPP-NPA. Your Army in Negros will not stop. We will relentlessly pursue and neutralize all armed rebels wherever they hide,” Samson said.
He also urged remaining NPAs to abandon the armed struggle and take the path toward peace.
“To those who remain in the armed movement, you are not only risking your own lives but also compromising the safety and future of your families and communities. The door to peace remains open—surrender now while you still have the chance,” he added.*