CAMP MELCHOR F. DELA CRUZ, Gamu, Isabela – A New People Army leader was killed in an encounter on Wednesday, September 11, in Barangay Baliuag, Peñablanca, Cagayan, the military said on Saturday, September 14.
The Army 5th Infantry Division identified the fatality as Edgar M. Arbitrario, alias Karl, secretary of the Komiteng Rehiyon Cagayan Valley.
According to the military, Arbitrario was seriously wounded. He succumbed to his wounds and his body was recovered on Friday, September 13.
Two other comrades died in the encounter – Ka Jorly and Ka Nieves, who was a Polytechnic University of the Philippines student who joined the communist movement in 2019.
Recovered in the encounter site were high-powered firearms, five magazine assemblies, ammunition, one binocular, five bag packs, two pairs of boots, and medical kits.
READ: https://mb.com.ph/2024/9/12/pup-student-turned-npa-amazon-killed-in-clash
Arbitrario, 48, a native of Davao City, was a former civil engineering student who dropped out to join the NPA in the 1990s.
The military said he was involved in numerous terrorist activities in Compostela Valley and Davao del Norte.
He joined the NPA in Cagayan Valley in 2014 and in February 2016, he was arrested for murder and double attempted murder allegedly committed on February 14, 2011.
The military is verifying how he returned to the communist movement after his arrest.
Major Gen. Gulliver Señires, commander of the 5th Infantry Division, condoled with the families of the fatalities.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of lives among the communist insurgents. Each life is a profound waste, and it pains us to see fellow Filipinos perish. This tragedy underscores the human cost of conflict and reinforces our commitment to pursuing peace."
Señires said the 5th Infantry Division remains steadfast in fulfilling its mandate of ensuring peace and security in Northern Luzon and extends its hand to those willing to abandon the armed struggle.
“The 5th Infantry Division will continue to pursue the remaining NPA members with relentless focus. But I would also like to emphasize that we also offer a path to peace for those who choose to lay down their arms and surrender. Including those who deserted, and are currently on lie low status. Let us help you reintegrate into our peaceful and progressive society. Call us and help us help you,” he said.