The recent neutralization of 19 remnants of the dismantled New People’s Army’s (NPA) Northern Negros Front in Toboso, Negros Occidental, was due to accurate intelligence and precise execution of a battle plan, the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) said yesterday.

In a statement, 3ID commander Major General Michael Samson said these efforts are focused on stopping the atrocities and killings permanently and ensuring justice for their victims.

“Backed by reliable information and executed with precision, these combat operations are part of the Army’s continuing efforts in Negros to neutralize all remnants and achieve total victory in the fight against insurgency,” he said.

The Toboso running gun battle has resulted in the highest number of casualties among the NPA guerrilla fronts on Negros Island in decades.

On April 19, a series of clashes in Barangay Salamanca, Toboso, resulted in the death of wanted NPA hitman Roger Fabillar and his 18 comrades after troops from the 79th Infantry Battalion found their lair in Sitio Sinugmawan at dawn and engaged them until the afternoon, pushing the fighting to Sitio Plarinding.

Fabillar’s death ends a four-year manhunt by authorities for him, who has been linked to the summary executions of civilians they accused of being military spies.

A soldier was wounded but is now in stable condition at a hospital in Bacolod City.

In a report, the 3ID said the troops recovered an assault rifle, two rifle grenades, a hand grenade, bandoliers, 20 hammocks, backpacks, food supplies, and other personal items.

“We commend the bravery and determination of our operating troops, as well as the vigilance and cooperation of the Negrenses,” Samson said.

The 3ID also said the situation at the encounter site in Barangay Salamanca has stabilized after hundreds of residents near the border of Toboso and Escalante City were evacuated to safety amid the clashes.

“We are assuring residents that they are safe at their respective homes,” it added. (PNA)