BACOLOD CITY – Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson renewed his appeal to members of the New People’s Army (NPA) to lay down their arms and return to the fold of the government and said that those who have already surrendered have been given opportunities for a fresh start.

While the Philippine Army described the recent clashes as “justice served” for the victims of insurgency in northern Negros since 2022, Lacson said he was sad to see continuing violence, especially Filipinos fighting fellow Filipinos.

He reiterated hopes that NPA rebels would choose peace, assuring them that the government remains ready to assist them in rebuilding their lives.

The governor voiced concern over the series of violent incidents in northern Negros in recent months, saying authorities have long been hoping such killings would come to an end.

However, he warned that as long as armed groups continue to carry firearms, similar clashes may still occur.

“It’s very unfortunate that we have so many casualties this time. I do hope no more of such incident will happen, especially in the area of northern Negros,” Lacson said.

Nineteen NPA rebels, including an alleged notorious hitman, were killed in a series of encounters with the 79th Infantry Battalion (IB) in Barangay Salamanca, Toboso, Negros Occidental on April 19.

The military has yet to release the names of the fatalities pending verification of their identities.

A soldier was wounded in the encounter and is now recuperating in a hospital here.