links: http://www.army.mil.ph/pr/2014/july/040714.html
One NPA, one soldier killed as troops encounter reds in Negros
BAIS CITY, Negros Oriental
– One NPA and one soldier were killed following an encounter with more
or less fifteen New People’s Army remnants in Sitio Sandana, Brgy
Mansangahan, Bais City, Negros Oriental at 10:15a.m. Friday, July 4.
Lt. Col. Harold Anthony Pascua, the
Commanding Officer of 79th Infantry Battalion said that his troops were
conducting security operations in said village when they were fired upon
by more or less fifteen (15) lawless armed elements believed to be
members of the Southeast Front, Komiteng Rehiyonal-Negros (SEF, KR-N.
“Our troops engaged the remnant forces
of the NPA bandits which resulted to the death of one of our troops. The
NPA rebels withdraw in disarray leaving behind one of their dead
comrades,” said Pascua.
Identification of slain soldier and NPA are still being withheld pending prior notification of next of kin.
The troops scoured the scene of encounter and recovered fifteen (15) ponchos, kitchen utensils and personal belonging.
Prior to encounter which lasted for
thirty (30) minutes, residents of said barangay reported to the Army
personnel about the presence of lawless armed elements that are trying
to recruit the youth to join their movement and are extorting from the
populace.
Major General Aurelio Baladad, Commander
of the 3rd Infantry Division said that the Army will continue with its
persistent call for peace with the people despite this response from the
NPA.
“We are likewise sending upon them (NPA)
to listen to this call of the people. This ‘armed struggle’ has only
brought death and suffering and continue to deny our people’s desire to
have a peaceful life and developed communities,” added Baladad.
“We express our deepest sympathy to the
family and friends of our slain soldier. His heroism and sacrifices will
not go in vain.”
However, he also expressed his sympathy to the family and relatives of the NPA rebel who was killed.
“It is very tragic that he has taken
arms against the people of Negros when only through peace can
development and social justice be achieved.”
Additional troops are now in the area
conducting pursuit operations to run after the fleeing rebels while
members of the Philippine National Police Scene of the Crime Operatives
(SOCO) conducted investigation in the encounter site.
Troops of 79IB are also in close
communication with the barangay officials to ensure the safety and
security of the residents in the area.
Press Release by the 3ID, PA
PHILIPPINE ARMY
AFP Websites
PROTECTION AND PROMOTION OF HUMAN RIGHTS
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------
