IN CANLAON: 2 brgys now ‘insurgent-free'

From the Visayan Daily Star (Apr 17): IN CANLAON: 2 brgys now ‘insurgent-free'

Barangays Bayog and Lumapao of Canlaon City, Negros Oriental were declared “ insurgent-free and development-ready” yesterday, with the signing of the area clearing evaluation report by the military, police and barangay officials at the Panubigan, Canlaon, a military press release said.

Col. Christopher Estella, deputy Brigade commander of 302 nd Brigade, and chairman of the Area Clearing Evaluation Board, said the two barangays have been cleared from the influences of the New People's Army, “And we expect that development will flow on those areas”.

Bayog and Lumapao used to be frequented by the NPAs, and this affected the development efforts of the government. But the active support of the local government units of special operations teams deployed in these barangays brought a positive impact on the community. Residents are now receptive and cooperative in the programs of the government, the press release also said.

Barangays Mayabon and Calango of Zamboanguita, and Brgy. Tayak in Siaton were declared “insurgent-free and development ready” early this month under a joint declaration signed by the LGUs, the PNP and 302 nd Brigade, the press release also said.

More barangays in Negros Oriental will be declared NPA-free as the military continues its operations in the hinterlands of the province where a minimal number of rebels are operating, Estella added.

He said the ACEB is optimistic that the province will be free of insurgency this year and will attract more investors and ensure its progress, the press release said.

Present at the signing of the report were Estella, Canlaon Mayor Jimmy Clerigo, Bayog Brgy. Captain Neneth Galang, Lumapao Brgy. Captain Gaudioso Olvido, Senior Police Officer 4 Carol Garcia of Canlaon City PNP, Canlaon ABC president Mamerto Bermil, kagawad Lito Ocag, and Ltc. Wilfredo Isaac and 1Lt. Danilo Mutoc of the 11 th Infantry Battalion, the press release added.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2013/April/17/negor4.htm