By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The Philippine Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion (79IB) yesterday said they have identified the slain member of the New People’s Army (NPA) following their clash in the town of Calatrava last Tuesday morning.

Lt. Colonel J-jay Javines, commander of the 79IB, identified the slain insurgent as Jhonrey Pahayahay, a member of the NPA’s Northern Negros Front and assigned in the NPA’s Special Partisan Unit (SPARU).

Based on information given to them by Barangay Minapasuk Chairman Johnny Guillot, Pahayahay is known to have actively recruited individuals to the NPA. The slain rebel also engaged in extortion activities, and has been known to threaten the local populace.

He further added that Tuesday morning’s clash also lasted for at least five minutes before Pahayahay’s four other colleagues were forced to retreat.

Earlier, Philippine Army 3rd Infantry Division spokesperson Major Cenon Pancito said a scout platoon from the 79IB conducted the strike operation.

The 79IB recovered a .45 caliber pistol, a .38 caliber revolver, and subversive documents in the encounter site.

Pancito added the 79IB did not sustain any casualties in the battle./DGB, WDJ