Just a day after Barangay Tapi in Kabankalan celebrated its annual Papisik Festival, a band of suspected New People’s Army (NPA) members clashed with the military around 5:30 AM on April 27 in Purok Maghiropay.
Officials from the 302nd Infantry Brigade confirmed that seven individuals, suspected to be members of the NPA, were killed during an encounter with joint forces from the 47th, 15th, 11th, and 94th battalions of the Philippine Army.
The slain individuals were identified as Jhonrey Mejares, alias Jai/JR, Political Instructor/Political Guide; Glendel Tinio Mejares, alias Ayin, Medical Officer; and Charity Amacan, alias Cha/Leah, Squad Leader/Former Secretary. All three were members of the Southeast Front of the Komiteng Rehiyon — Negros, Cebu, Bohol, and Siquijor.
Also killed were Reniel Locsin Cellon, alias Kumpol/Adie, Squad Leader and former commander; Mary Jane Maguilat, alias Shonie/Chinchin/Shedi, Vice Squad Leader; Jhon Isidor Supelanas, alias Dalia, Political Instructor; and an individual known as alias Pitong, Medical Officer — all part of the Southwest Front of the NPA in the island.
The fierce battle lasted for over an hour.
Election-related?
According to 302nd Infantry Brigade Commander Joey Escanillas, the group was likely involved in an election-related mission, referred to as “Permit to Campaign” and “Permit to Win,” where rebels allegedly receive payments from candidates in exchange for campaign support.
“This operation was vital in safeguarding the local populace, and its success exemplifies their dedication and skill,” he said.
In a separate media interview, Pablo Maguilat, the father of the slain Maguilat, spoke about his daughter’s involvement with the NPA.
He acknowledged that he knew his daughter had become a regular member of the armed group, a decision he could not control.
However, he shared that he had tried to convince her not to join the armed revolution. He emphasized that despite their humble background as farmers, they always had enough to eat three times a day.
Government troops recovered six M16 rifles, one of which was equipped with an M203 grenade launcher, as well as one KG9 submachine gun and other personal belongings from the site.
No evacuation
Meanwhile, Kabankalan City Mayor Benjie Miranda explained that the military did not recommend a “forced evacuation,” which is why no residents fled to the barangay’s designated evacuation center.
He added that family packs and hot meals were prepared and ready for 170 households affected by the clash.
On the other hand, a bullet struck an elderly civilian in the mouth during the encounter.
Sources say he was caught in the crossfire because the rebels had allegedly stayed in his house for several nights. Responders rushed him to the hospital, where he is currently receiving medical treatment.
As of now, the area where the encounter took place is accessible once again.*
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.