The Philippine Army’s 12th Infantry Battalion engaged in combat with suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Sitio Naatip, Barangay Lahug, Tapaz town, Capiz, on December 28, resulting in the death of one alleged communist rebel member.
A news dispatch from 3rd Infantry Division said that they acted on information from local residents about the alleged presence of armed rebels, which later escalated into an armed confrontation around 12:47 pm.
The military alleges that they confronted ten suspected members of the Regional Sentro De Gravidad (RSDG) and Central Front (CF) Komiteng Rehiyon–Panay for 30 minutes, a guerilla front that the military described as weakened.
The suspected NPA retreated in multiple directions after the clash, leaving behind one alleged communist rebel, a rifle, and five backpacks.
However, military officials said they have yet to determine the identity of the fatality.
Meanwhile, Major General Marion R. Sison, Commander of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division, praised the soldiers for their swift response and dedication to ensuring the safety of Panay’s residents.
“This operation highlights the commitment and professionalism of our troops in maintaining the peace and security of Western and Central Visayas,” Sison said.
The systemic neglect in the country, fueled by the widening gap between the rich and poor and a history of injustices, has made it home to Asia’s longest-running communist insurgency.
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, maintains a personal blog on Medium, and is the communications officer of Hope Builders Organization Negros Island.