BACOLOD CITY – The body of a New People’s Army (NPA) medic was found on Saturday, August 26, two days after an encounter with the Army 11th Infantry Battalion (IB) in Sitio Taleo, Barangay Milagrosa, Santa Catalina, Negros Oriental, on August 24.
The 11th IB said a K9 dog discovered the body of Ruby Almines, alias “Kende,” a medic of the Southeast Front (SEF) of the Komiteng Rehiyon Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor (KR-NCBS).
Almines’ body was found at the encounter site where Corporal Richard Rafols of the 11th IB was also killed.
Lt. Col. J-jay Javines, chief of the 3rd Infantry Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO), said soldiers acting on information from residents on the alleged presence of armed rebels in the area encountered at least 10 NPA rebels believed to be remnants of the dismantled SEF-KR-NCBS.
Soldiers recovered an M653 rifle, an anti-personnel mine (APM), four magazines for M653, three magazines for M653, 40 rounds of 5.56mm ball, batteries, electrical tester, backpacks with personal belongings, tarpaulin, and food.
Major Gen. Marion Sison, 3rd ID commander, in a statement, said, “We will make sure that this ultimate sacrifice paid by our soldier-hero will not be in vain.”
He warned the NPA that the Army will not rest until none of them remain to continue their “futile and senseless” armed struggle.
Sison said that the 11th IB will intensify its efforts to protect the people of Negros Oriental.