NPA killed, high-powered firearm seized in Negros Occidental clash

From the Sun Star-Philippines (Jan 11, 2025): NPA killed, high-powered firearm seized in Negros Occidental clash (By Leo Solinap)

NEGROS. A 15th Infantry Battalion soldiers show the M14 assault rifle, and four backpacks and other recoveries at the encounter site in Sitio Cambugyot, Barangay Camindangan, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental, where one NPA member was killed and an M14 assault rifle was seized following a 25-minute firefight on January 10, 2025. (Photo by 15IB)

A MEMBER of the Communist New People’s Army (NPA) was killed during an encounter with troops from the Army’s 15th Infantry (Molave Warrion) Battalion (15IB) on Friday, January 10, 2025, in Sitio Cambugyot, Barangay Camindangan, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental.

Major General Marion Sison, commander of the Army's 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division (3ID), commended the 15IB for its successful operation.

He highlighted the neutralization of an NPA member and the seizure of a high-powered firearm as significant accomplishments in maintaining peace and security in Negros Island.

“I urge the remaining CTG (Communist Terrorist Group) remnants to lay down their arms and return to the fold of law. There is still time to choose a different path. Our troops remain committed to pursuing those who threaten the hard-won stable internal peace and security environment of Negros Island,” Sison said.

He also called on NPA members to take advantage of the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-Clip) and Amnesty Program, emphasizing the opportunity to reunite with their families and reintegrate into their communities.

He emphasized the chance to avoid the same fate as their comrades and urged them to work together for a peaceful future on Negros Island.

“This is your chance to avoid the same fate that befell your comrade. Together, we can build a peaceful future for Negros Island, a future where harmony and progress flourish,” Sison added.

The clash occurred between 15IB at around 7:35 a.m. as government forces conducted combat operations following reports of armed communist terrorists in Sipalay City.

The 15IB based in Cauayan, Negros Occidental is headed by Lieutenant Colonel Brian Bagaipo.

The soldiers encountered an undetermined number of remnants from the dismantled Southwest Front under the Komiteng Rehiyon – Negros Cebu Bohol Siquijor.

The firefight lasted for 25 minutes, resulting in the death of one unidentified NPA member. The troops recovered the cadaver of the slain rebel, an M14 assault rifle, and four backpacks. No casualties were reported on the side of the government forces. (Leo Solinap/SunStar Philippines)

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/iloilo/npa-killed-high-powered-firearm-seized-in-negros-occidental-clash