The Philippine Army will continue to pursue remaining communist insurgents in Negros Occidental to prevent the New People’s Army (NPA) from regrouping after suffering major setbacks in less than a month.

In a clash with troops of the 15th Infantry Battalion in Cauayan on May 16, the NPA lost five more members, following the death of their 19 comrades during the Toboso encounter on April 19.

In a press briefing on Monday afternoon, May 18, Major General Michael Samson, commander of the 3rd Infantry Battalion, said the Philippine Army launched intensified operations in Negros to address the summary executions perpetrated by the NPA over the past year.

“We have to address that, that’s why we have to intensify our operations in Negros,” he added.

According to the 302nd Infantry Brigade, the remnants of the dismantled Southwest Front, who were neutralized during the clash in Cauayan, were behind the killings of at least 26 innocent individuals in southern Negros.

Samson said the troops will “sustain intensified, focused military operations to prevent the fleeing communist terrorists from regrouping and thwart any attempt to sow fear and disrupt the lives” of Negrenses.

“The operation in Cauayan demonstrates the unwavering commitment of our troops, in partnership with the local communities, to protect the people from the threats and atrocities perpetrated by these armed groups,” he added.

The five fatalities were identified as Rolando Dantes Jr., 37 years old, commanding officer of Southwest Front, as well as members Jobert Casipong and Gilbert Tingson, who are all residents of the neighboring Sipalay City.

Another member Alex Chavez, was listed as a resident of Santa Catalina, Negros Oriental, while Francis Vince Dingding, political instructor of Southeast Front, is from Cebu City. (PNA)