NPA claims Negros rebel returnee killing

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Armando Sumayang Jr. Command–New People’s Army (NPA) Southwest Negros Guerrilla Front claimed responsibility for the gun attack that killed a laborer and former rebel in Sitio Sinuwayan, Barangay Camalandaan, Cauayan, Negros Occidental, on Monday.

The group said the 27-year-old victim was a military asset who surrendered to the government in 2023 after leaving the armed struggle.

Police said the victim was shot dead while attending a birthday celebration, which also left a 19-year-old woman injured after being hit by a stray bullet.

The teenager, who is related to the celebrant, is recuperating in a hospital.

The incident is the latest in a string of insurgency-related killings in Negros Island, with most cases reported in northern Negros Occidental since March.

Police said they are intensifying coordination with the Philippine Army to address these incidents.

A 58-year-old welder was also fatally shot by two unidentified men in Barangay Caliban, Murcia, Negros Occidental, on Thursday morning.

Police Capt. Honey Labaro, chief of Murcia Municipal Police Station, said the victim, identified only as Crispin, was on his way to work when he was waylaid.

A passerby discovered the victim’s body and reported it to authorities.

Labaro said the victim suffered gunshot wounds to the head and body.

Spent shells and live ammunition from a .45-caliber pistol were recovered at the scene.

Labaro said there were no witnesses and police are still investigating the motive.