Troops of the 47th Infantry “Katapatan” Battalion encountered around seven remnants of the Communist New People’s Army Terrorist (CNT) group in Barangay Tampalon, Kabankalan City in Negros Occidental on March 21.
The two-minute firefight resulted in the death of three CNT remnants linked to a series of atrocities in the Negros Island Region (NIR), including the killing of 74-year-old Leonora N. Anguit and 39-year-old Renante Vedarte Guadalupe, both residents of Barangay Tapi, Kabankalan City.
The fatalities were identified as Milky alias “Gorting” Sampini, Ritchie alias “Makoy”/“Akiro” Verano, and Joedil alias “Junjun”/“Cairo” Balsimo, who were reportedly remnants of combined elements of the Dismantled South West Front and the Regional Strike Force, Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros.
Recovered from the encounter site were one R4 rifle, two M16 rifles with M203 grenade launchers, and various subversive documents.
Meanwhile, no casualties were reported on the government side.
Major General Michael G. Samson, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, said the operation is part of its effort to reinforce peace and order in the region.
“This operation is part of the government’s sustained anti-insurgency campaign to eradicate the remaining communist-terrorist elements in the Negros Island Region. We remain steadfast and relentless in our efforts, giving them no chance to resurge and endanger our communities,” Samson said.
He also called on the remaining members of the group to surrender and avail of government reintegration programs.
“We call on the remaining members of the CTG to abandon the armed struggle and return to mainstream society to avoid suffering the same misfortune as their comrades. Lay down your arms, come down, and embrace peace. The government, through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program [E-CLIP] and Amnesty Program, is ready to help you start anew. This is the path toward healing, reconciliation, and building a better future for yourselves and your families,” he added.
Kabankalan City Mayor Benjie Miranda likewise expressed support, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration between security forces and local government.
“We stand with our troops in ensuring the safety of our people. This development brings us closer to a more peaceful and secure Kabankalan,” Miranda said. (PIA Negros Occidental)