Government troops in Negros Oriental continue their military operations following recent encounters with the New People’s Army (NPA) in Negros Occidental, an official said.

Brigadier General Jason Jumawan, commander of the 302nd Brigade of the Philippine Army based in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental, said in an interview that they are not letting their guards down and will continue pursuing the insurgents without let-up.

His brigade oversees the central-southern area of Negros Island, while the 303rd brigade manages the northern parts.

“During the recent weeks and months, you have witnessed how the NPA has executed liquidations of individuals, including alleged informants or those thought to be linked with government forces,” Jumawan said.

“We cannot allow these atrocities to persist, and therefore we must guarantee their safety from the terrors of the NPA.”

He said it is their duty to protect the people and lauded community participation in reporting to authorities the presence of armed individuals in their barangays.

Jumawan noted that due to dwindling membership, the NPA’s Southeast and Southwest Fronts have merged, with five members recently killed in a clash in Cauayan, Negros Occidental, with 15th Infantry Battalion soldiers.

The brigade commander also assured the public that they are ready to take on the NPA any time, as they are fully prepared with complete manpower and logistics.

Jumawan also confirmed that they are looking into intelligence reports regarding NPA members planning to enter the province from other areas.

However, he said he believes that this is unlikely due to the stringent security measures enforced by law enforcement agencies on both land and sea. (PNA)