Army Buries Unclaimed Slain NPA Rebel in Negros

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – The Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion provided a decent burial for an alleged New People’s Army (NPA) rebel killed in clashes in Barangay Humay-Humay, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, on May 1.

The slain rebel, identified by a former comrade as Tony Pahayahay, alias “Aldren” or “Redol,” 53, of Barangay Bulado, Guihulngan City, was laid to rest at 2:30 p.m. on May 6 at the public cemetery in Barangay Poblacion.

His family did not claim his remains.

The Army identified him as a member of Squad 2, Sentro de Grabidad of the dismantled Central Negros 1 under the Komiteng Rehiyon–Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor.

The Guihulngan Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict and the 62nd Infantry Battalion said the burial underscored the government’s commitment to uphold human rights and respect for life, regardless of affiliation.

“In the face of conflict, we remain guided by the principles of humanity and compassion,” said Lt. Col. Evelio Ilanga III, commander of the 62nd Infantry Battalion.

Ilanga urged remaining NPA rebels to surrender as the path to peace remains open.

“There is no future in armed struggle, and those who follow the same path will likely suffer the same fate,” he said.