Army denies NPA killed soldier claim

From the Visayan Daily Star (Dec 3): Army denies NPA killed soldier claim

The 303rd Infantry Brigade yesterday dismissed as fake news claims of the New People’s Army Armando Sumayang Command that an Army soldier was killed after they harassed a military outpost in Brgy. Asia, Hinobaan, Negros Occidental,on Nov. 27.

Rebel spokesperson Andrea Guerrero had claimed in a statement that a certain Jayr Calunan died during the harassment, while SSgt. Ricky Ignacio was wounded in action.

Col. Benedict Arevalo, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, clarified last night that there was no soldier casualty, except for the injury of Ignacio, who is now in stable condition.

The harassment of a detachment, being constructed in Brgy. Asia, Hinobaan, came several days for President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the deployment of additional military and police personnel in Negros Occidental and Oriental, as well as in Bicol and Samar, to suppress the lawlessness and violent activities of the CPP-NPA.

Guerrero further claimed that the harassment of the detachment was in response to the people's vehement demand for the end of militarization in the countryside, and an answer to the Armed Forces of the Philippines' (AFP) “all out war” declaration in Negros.

The rebel group spokesperson also accused the 15th Infantry Battalion of occupying schools, barangay halls and public markets and transforming houses of locals into their detachment.

She also alleged that residents were made to wear army uniforms and forced to guide combat operations.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2018/December/03/topstory8.htm