By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

At least 15 armed men allegedly broke into the home owned by an organizer for the Kalipunan ng Damayang Mahihirap (Kadamay), a group that advocates for the urban poor, over the weekend in Bacolod City’s Barangay Mansilingan.
According to Mike Dela Concepcion, secretary-general for the Negros chapter of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan), the men broke into the home of Violeta and Alma Larit early Saturday morning.
Dela Concepcion said witnesses claimed the men were armed with high-caliber firearms but were not able to identify them as they were reportedly wearing masks and tactical gear.
The Bayan official said the Larits were home at the time of the incident and, when the armed men were asked their purpose in breaking in, they allegedly stated they were looking for “Loyda and Celine Torres.”
The suspects left after the Larits and others said they did not know the two.
Police Station 7 (PS7) commander, Police Major Sherlock Gabana, said they believe there were between eight and 12 armed men involved in the incident.
He added, the victims’ home was damaged due to the forced break-in.
PS7 is still investigating the incident./DGB, WDJ