Sigma village chief denies residency for slain rebel

By Felipe V. Celino

ROXAS CITY, Capiz – A village chief in Sigma, Capiz has refused to issue a certificate of residency for an alleged rebel killed in a recent clash with the military.

Grace Bignayan, punong barangay of Barangay Pinamalatican, denied the request from the family of Edwin Penequito Gregore, alias “Popoy,” stating that he had long abandoned his family and was no longer a resident of the village.

Gregore, a Squad 1 member of the New People’s Army (NPA), and Benmark Laguerder, alias “Anjino,” a finance and logistics officer of Squad 3, were killed in an encounter with the Philippine Army on Sept. 20 in Tapaz, Capiz.

Bignayan said she was surprised by reports of Gregore’s death and confirmed that the military also requested a certificate, which she refused to provide due to his non-residency.

Gregore’s remains are currently at a funeral home in Tapaz.

The firefight took place around 7:45 a.m. and involved joint elements of the 82nd, 61st, and 12th Infantry Battalions against an estimated seven NPA members from the Komiteng Rehiyon–Panay (KR-P).

Two bodies were recovered at the encounter site.

Government troops also seized two M16 assault rifles, one M653 rifle, a rifle grenade, explosives, magazines, ammunition, and personal belongings.

No government casualties were reported.

Maj. Gen. Michael Samson, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, praised the soldiers’ swift action in neutralizing the armed group and recovering high-powered weapons.

He credited local residents for their support and valuable intelligence that contributed to the successful operation.

“This victory is not only a testament to the dedication and bravery of our soldiers, but also to the overwhelming support and vigilance of the people of Tapaz,” Samson said.

He urged remaining KR-P members to surrender and reintegrate through the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

“We urge the remnants of the group to reflect on the fate of their fallen comrades and avoid the same tragic end,” Samson said.

“A new life awaits you — one where true harmony and fulfillment can only be found in the embrace of your family, your community, and a government that is ready to support your transformation,” he added.