Army declares area in Negros Oriental "insurgent-free, development ready"

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 27): Army declares area in Negros Oriental "insurgent-free, development ready"

The Philippine Army’s 302nd Brigade in Negros Oriental has recently declared some of the barangays of Zamboanguita, Siaton and Canlaon City as “insurgent-free and development-ready” after the signing of the area clearing evaluation report of the local government units (LGUs), Philippine National Police (PNP) and Philippine Army.

Capt. Cresencio Gargar, information officer of the 302nd brigade said barangays Bayog and Lumapao of Canlaon City; Mayabon and Calango of Zamboanguita town and Tayak in Siaton town are now “insurgent-free.”

“This is contrary to the NPAs claims that they’re gaining influence, especially in the hinterlands of Negros Island,” said Capt. Gargar.

The army identified those barangays as previously victims of extortion and liquidation activities of the Communist Party of the Philippines/New People’s Army (CPP/NPA’s).

Gargar said this group has consistently taking up measures to hinder government’s development efforts. But the active support of the LGUs towards the Bayanihan Teams deployed in these barangays brings a positive impact to the community, added Gargar.

He further said that more barangays in Negros Oriental will be declared insurgent-free as the military continues its operations in the hinterlands of the province.

“We are optimistic that the province would eventually be free from insurgency later this year and thus will attract more investors and businesses,” the army official said.

It is noted that the army’s 302nd Brigade has zero human rights violation.

During the recent visit of Maj. Gen. Roy Deveraturda, Commander of the AFP’s Central Command, he lauded the successful Internal Peace and Security Operations (IPSO) and the zero human rights violation of the Brigade in its area of responsibility.

“We will continue to perform our mandate in protecting the Filipino people with utmost respect to Human Rights and strict adherence to the rule of Law,” said Deveraturda.

Meanwhile, Col. Francisco M. Patrimonio, Brigade Commander said that the unit will perform its best to maintain what the brigade have achieved and will maintain the tradition of excellence and discipline.

http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1111366967198