BACOLOD CITY – Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson on Friday reiterated his support for the Philippine Army, saying that the pursuit of the New People's Army (NPA) remnants in Toboso town on April 19 was a legitimate military operation.

The encounter in Barangay Salamanca led to the death of 19 individuals identified as NPA members, among them the special operations chief of the dismantled Northern Negros Front, Roger Fabillar Tapang, who had a P1-million reward for his arrest.

“We believe that it was a legitimate encounter. I think we should also realize that the Army could not have done that without information from the community. Clearly, the community helped guide the Philippine Army to run after their target,” the governor said in an interview with Capitol reporters.

Lacson, chairman of the Regional Peace and Order Council in Negros Island Region, said he does not question the Philippine Army on how they carry out their duties.

“In fact, we appreciate (what they do) because every day, they are out there sacrificing their lives for us to be free, for us to do whatever we have to do peacefully,” he added.

He said there is no need for an independent investigation into the encounter.

“For me, hindi na (not anymore). I don’t think there’s a need for that, but it’s already ongoing. I understand the Commission on Human Rights is already here in Negros doing its investigation,” he said. “If you ask me, I will not call for an investigation because I trust that the Philippine Army encounter with the NPA was legitimate.”

Lacson renewed his call for those who remain in the armed struggle to return to the fold of the law.

“We’ve always said this, lay down your arms because there is only one army, and that is the Philippine Army. There is only one Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Even if you want to talk peace, do the first thing: ‘Lay down your arms,’” he said.

The AFP said the encounter between troops of the 79th Infantry Battalion and NPA was an operation that was “launched based on verified reports from civilians on the presence of armed elements in the area.”

“The operation was conducted in accordance with established rules of engagement and with full regard for civilian safety. In close coordination with local government units and partner agencies, affected residents were safely evacuated at the height of the encounter and have since returned to their communities,” it added.