Suspected NPA rebel killed in Binalbagan clash

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — A suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebel was killed in an encounter with the Army’s 94th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Bi-ao, Binalbagan, Negros Occidental, early Friday.

Lt. Col. Zeigfred Tayaban, commander of the 94th Infantry Battalion, said the fatality was identified by former comrades as alias “Dante,” a resident of Barangay Buenavista, Himamaylan City.

Tayaban said Dante was described by his former comrades as an alleged finance and logistics officer of the dismantled Central Negros 2 and a member of the Regional Strike Force.

He said Dante was allegedly involved in extortion and harassment activities, as well as killings and the burning of heavy equipment, in an attempt to revive the group’s influence.

With his death, Tayaban said the group’s efforts to regain influence would be affected, noting that its remnants are already struggling.

The encounter reportedly broke out at around 2:50 a.m. when troops responded to reports of alleged extortion activities and the presence of armed men in the area.

Soldiers from the 94th Infantry Battalion clashed with about 10 suspected Central Negros 2 remnants, and pursuit operations are ongoing.

Tayaban said an M16 rifle, several rounds of ammunition, and personal belongings were recovered from the slain suspect.

He said the remains will be turned over to the local government and police authorities for proper disposition.

Following the incident, the barangay council ordered the suspension of classes on Friday in four elementary schools, one high schoo,l and all day care centers as a precautionary measure.

The affected schools are Binadlan Elementary School, Bulwang Elementary School, Nasanagan Elementary School, Bi-ao Elementary School, and Bi-ao National High School.

The barangay council said in an executive order that the suspension was ordered to ensure the safety of learners and teachers due to the armed encounter.

Meanwhile, Tayaban said no residents were affected or displaced as a result of the clash.