By CESAR JOLITO III
Security forces have blamed remnants of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) for at least 28 killings on Negros Island since early last year, describing the violence as a campaign of terror targeting civilians rather than combatants.
The killings average about two victims per month based on data compiled by security forces, the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) said in a statement.
Those killed include farmers, peasants and elderly residents — individuals with no direct involvement in armed conflict.
“These are not isolated incidents but part of a systematic campaign meant to instill fear, weaken public morale and disrupt community unity,” the 3ID said.
“The victims are ordinary citizens whose only choice was to live peacefully,” it added.
The 3ID said the pattern of violence contradicts the CTG’s long-standing claims of fighting for social justice.
CTG has long been active in parts of Negros, but the military said recent attacks reflect attempts by dwindling factions to remain relevant through violence.
The army strongly condemned the killings and reiterated its commitment to protect civilians, uphold the rule of law, and bring those responsible to justice.
It also called on the Commission on Human Rights and other human rights advocates to investigate the incidents thoroughly and ensure accountability for the perpetrators.
“As Negros faces this continuing threat, unity among communities remains critical,” the 3ID statement added, urging residents to stand firm against violence and to defend peace and human dignity across the island.
The 3ID said the latest incident occurred on February 3, when a 74-year-old woman was shot dead outside her home at Purok Halimbawa in Negros Occidental’s Kabankalan City.
Authorities said initial investigations indicate the elderly victim was deliberately targeted.
Military officials noted that the victim’s residence had previously been linked to an encounter between government troops and CTG members in April 2025 in nearby Purok Maghiropay, raising concerns that civilians are being attacked in retaliation for perceived cooperation with authorities.
From early to late last year, the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) recorded multiple cases involving farmers, laborers, tricycle drivers, barangay officials, forest guards, vendors, and community leaders who were killed after being labeled as informants.
Among those cited were Elberto Ancero Lubon, Cirilo Llena, Efren Solinap, Jonhee Montoya, Rickne Daipal, Jury Gane, Leonardo Nepalar, Jobert Alsado, Elias Palay, Jesmar Pacunla, Isagani Imalay, Enrique Bertucio, Jonestly Vallente Sr., Jessie Tinggab, Johnny Boy dela Fuente, Jerry Emia, Joshua Rabor, Anecito Mahinay, Danny “Gamay” Francisco, Maricel Pantajo, Ariel Calumboy, Joamie Peralta, Danilo Inglatera, Emong Kantala, and Michael Robel.
The NTF-ELCAC called for coordinated action to prevent further attacks, urging the Philippine National Police to intensify manhunts and case build-up and the Department of Justice to fast-track inquests and prosecutions involving summary executions.
It also appealed to the Armed Forces of the Philippines to strengthen focused operations against armed groups conducting “liquidations,” and to local government units to activate community protection mechanisms and provide immediate security to residents under threat./CJ, WDJ