By Glazyl Masculino
BACOLOD CITY - Four policemen were killed after they engaged in a firefight with suspected New People's Army (NPA) at Sitio Yamot, Brgy. Mabato, Ayungon, Negros Oriental Thursday afternoon.
New People's Army (MANILA BULLETIN)
Authorities withheld the identities of the fatalities as of press time. They were assigned at Nabingca Post in the said village.
The initial report from Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (Norppo), the victims were riding two motorcycles and were allegedly approaching near the house of a certain "Oto Anadon" when they encountered several armed men around 2:30 p.m.
The police officers sustained multiple injuries which caused their immediate death.
The alleged members of the communist group fled.
The local police have yet to provide further details o the incident as the investigation is ongoing.
Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, commander of 303rd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army, said their troops are on full alert.
Arevalo said they are willing to deploy their troops in case the police need their assistance.