By CESAR JOLITO III

The New People’s Army (NPA) has admitted responsibility for two separate fatal shooting incidents in Negros Occidental this month, both involving individuals the rebel group accused of being government informants, as police continue independent investigations to verify the circumstances and identities involved.

In a statement, the Romeo Nanta Command of NPA’s South Central Negros Guerrilla Front acknowledged the killing of a 58-year-old man identified as “Marlo” in Binalbagan town’s Barangay Bi-ao last Monday, June 8.

The group alleged that “Marlo” previously served as a member of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) Active Auxiliary and later became an intelligence asset for government forces.

However, Binalbagan police chief, Captain Joelan Vinson, confirmed that the victim had served as a CAFGU member from 1991 to 1993.

He also noted that the man was known locally as a pastor and peace advocate.

Initial police reports said “Marlo” was supervising laborers in a sugarcane field when two unidentified gunmen approached and shot him dead.

Authorities emphasized that while the NPA has claimed responsibility, the case remains under investigation to establish a complete account of the incident.

Police also noted that this marks the fourth insurgency-related incident recorded in Binalbagan in recent weeks, following earlier attacks in Barangays Santol and Payao.

In a separate incident, the Roselyn Jean Pelle Command of the NPA’s Northern Negros Guerrilla Front also claimed responsibility for the shooting of alias “Momar” in Calatrava town’s Barangay Minautok on June 5.

The group alleged the victim was an asset of both military and police forces and accused him of involvement in gun-for-hire activities and illegal drugs.

Police, however, provided a slightly different account, saying four armed men forcibly entered the victim’s home.

One gunman reportedly opened fire while the others stood guard.

The victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds and died on the spot.

A 22-year-old companion was also injured after being grazed by a bullet on the toe.

Authorities said they are continuing to gather evidence, including witness statements and forensic findings, to determine the full circumstances behind both attacks.

The Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the NPA, have been engaged in a decades-long insurgency since 1969 and are officially designated as terrorist organizations by the Philippine government./CCJ, WDJ