2 NPAs killed on Christmas eve in Negros Oriental clash

By Glazyl Y. Masculino

 

BACOLOD City – Two men believed to be remnants of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed in a clash with the personnel of the Army’s 11th Infantry Battalion (IB) at Sitio Libjo, Barangay Napacao, Siaton, Negros Oriental on the night of December 24.

The Army has yet to provide the names of the fatalities who were alleged members of the Southeast Front, Komiteng Rehiyon Negros, Cebu, Bohol, and Siquijor (SEF, KR – NCBS).

Major General Eric Vinoya, commander of 3rd Infantry Division, said the incident was unfortunate but necessary in protecting the public from the activities of the NPA.

Military troopers encountered the unidentified armed men following

reports from concerned residents and barangay officials on the alleged presence of the NPA in the said area.

Authorities recovered from the casualties a 5.56mm M653 (Baby Armalite) and a .45 caliber pistol.

Also recovered from the encounter site were subversive documents, a bandolier with two magazines of M14, a backpack with medical supplies, two other backpacks with personal belongings, and medical paraphernalia.

Lieutenant Colonel Ramir Redosendo, 11th IB commander, in a statement said the clash was brought about by the intensified peace and security operations being undertaken through the Joint Enhanced Military and Police Operation (JEMPO).

He extended his deepest sympathies to the families and friends of those killed.