Army aids 700 persons displaced by clash

By: Glazyl Y. Masculino

BACOLOD City – The Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion (IB) reported that it provided assistance to about 700 individuals from two villages who were evacuated following the clash of the government forces against suspected New People’s Army (NPA) at Barangay Paitan, Escalante City, Negros Occidental last Saturday.

Classes were also suspended Monday in two schools used as evacuation centers.

Of the 700 displaced persons, 329 individuals or 109 families from Sitios Kagayon, Mansano and Morino of Barangay Paitan are temporarily sheltered at Paitan Elementary School.

91 families or 371 individuals from Sitios of Tabunok and Mina-oco of Barangay Libertad are staying at Libertad Elementary School.

Mayor Melecio Yap Jr. suspended classes at the said two schools until the area is safe and cleared.

A joint Quick Reaction Team (QRT) from the 79th IB provided assistance to the displaced families who were in panic when the military engaged in a gun battle with the rebels.

The fire fight resulted in the injuries of three soldiers and five reported casualties on the NPA side, but no civilians were hurt during the clash.

The affected individuals were provided with Disaster Assistance Family Access Card (DAFAC), medical consultation, and relief goods.

Stress management was also rendered to them in order to heal their worries and fears. Insurgency awareness was also tackled by the Army and former rebels who testified the consequence of insurgency and further encourage them to stop supporting the rebels.

They were assured that the local government unit (LGU) and local government agencies are ready to help, serve and protect not only in times of peace but also in times of critical or conflict situation.