BACOLOD CITY – Three New People's Army (NPA) rebels were killed in a clash with the Army 47th Infantry Battalion (IB) in Barangay Tampalon, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental on Saturday, March 21.
The Army 302nd Infantry Brigade (IBde) identified the fatalities as Milky “Gorting” Sampini, Ritchie “Makoy” and “Akiro” Verano, and Joedil “Junjun” and “Cairo” Balsimo.
They were linked to violent and arson incidents in Negros Island, including the death of 74-year-old grandmother Leonora Anguit and a 39-year-old man in Barangay Tapi, Kabankalan City.
The military clashed with seven remnants of the South West Front and Regional Striking Force when they responded to a report on the alleged presence of unidentified armed men in the area around 4 a.m.
Recovered from the encounter site were an R4 rifle, two M16 rifles with M203 grenade launchers, and subversive documents.
Brig. Gen. Jason Jumawan, 302nd IBde commander, in a statement, commended troops for their courage and operational efficiency, emphasizing that their successful neutralization marks a significant step toward sustaining peace and security in Negros Island.
"This accomplishment reflects the unwavering dedication of our soldiers to their sworn duty," he said as he vowed to bring to justice those responsible for terrorizing communities.
He reiterated the importance of sustained military operations and strong coordination with stakeholders to prevent their resurgence in the area. Jumawan said they will continue to intensify their operations.
The 47th IB honored Anguit and all victims of NPA atrocities.