NPA claims couple slay in Negros Oriental

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Leonardo Panaligan Command-New People’s Army Central Negros Guerrilla Front has claimed responsibility for the killing of a couple in Barangay Trinidad, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, on June 12.

In a statement dated June 14, the rebel group claimed it fatally shot Efren, 32, and his wife, Jean, 27, at their house, tagging them as alleged military assets.

Police Capt. Stephen Polinar, spokesperson for the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office, said police have read the NPA’s statement but consider it an allegation from the group.

He said the investigation is ongoing to verify the claim and establish the motive.

Polinar said it was difficult for police to immediately proceed to the area because of security threats, but they have coordinated with the Philippine Army.

He said initial information showed Jean was an alleged victim of sexual abuse, while her husband was allegedly a notorious robber in the area.

Polinar said the information is still subject to verification.

He said police are backtracking to look for possible witnesses.

The rebel group also claimed another shooting in Barangay Budlasan, Canlaon City, which killed Anthony, a resident of Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental.

However, Polinar said police still have to verify whether the incident could be linked to the NPA despite its admission.