The Communist Party of the Philippines and New People’s Army is taking full responsibility for the death of two people, including Far Eastern University football player Keith Absalon, over the weekend in Masbate City.
A statement released by the communist group and its armed wing said they’ve “expressed their deep remorse” over the killing of Absalon and his cousin Nolven while they were biking last Sunday, June 6.
Nolven’s 16-year-old son survived the incident which the group also said resulted “from the errors in the military action mounted by an NPA unit.”
“We fervently hope that the Absalon family, their relatives and friends, and the entire Filipino people can accept our profound apologies, self-criticism and willingness to express any form of indemnification,” the CPP said.
“In waging a people’s war, the New People’s Army is always reminded to give the highest priority to the protection of civilian lives and property. In this regard, the Masbate incident should have not happened.
“We are aware that an investigation is already being carried out by the Party’s Bicol Regional Committee and Masbate Provincial Committee of the Party and the higher commands of the NPA to identify the errors and weaknesses that led to this tragedy.
“The lessons that will be drawn should guide the NPA to avoid such unfortunate incidents in the future and strengthen its resolve to serve and defend the people.”
Absalon, a former UAAP juniors football Most Valuable Player also with FEU and once played for the national U-19 squad, was with Nolven and the latter’s son when a landmine exploded while biking at Barangay Anas.
Absalon was only 21 years old.