Negros Oriental: The commander of the Philippine Army's 3rd Infantry Division has called on troops stationed in Negros Oriental to maintain their operations against the remnants of the New People's Army (NPA) to prevent any recruitment activities. This call to action was made by Maj. Gen. Michael Samson during a change of command ceremony for the 11th Infantry Battalion (11IB) held in Barangay Salag, Siaton, located in the southern part of Negros Oriental.
According to Philippines News Agency, Maj. Gen. Samson officiated the handover of command from Lt. Col. Michael Aquino to the new battalion commander, Lt. Sol Zaulda. Samson emphasized the importance of vigilance, noting the opportunistic nature of the revolutionary movement, which tends to exploit situations where military presence is lacking. He pointed out that while Negros Oriental has only a small number of NPA remnants from the South Eastern Front, the army remains vigilant along the borders with Negros Occidental, where the South Western Front operates.
Samson instructed the 11th Infantry Battalion to persist with patrols, community visits, and security operations in the remote areas of Negros Oriental to ensure that the NPA does not regain its foothold in the region. He also urged the remaining NPA members from dismantled guerilla fronts on Negros Island to abandon their armed struggle and take advantage of the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program, which offers them the opportunity to reintegrate into society.
Lt. Col. Aquino was recognized for the battalion's achievements over the past two years, while Lt. Sol Zaulda expressed his commitment to continue and build upon his predecessor's successes. Zaulda acknowledged the challenges ahead as he acclimates to his new role, but pledged to sustain the battalion's ongoing programs and projects.
Additionally, Samson highlighted the critical role of government agencies and local government units in supporting the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) to maintain its progress. Although the NTF-ELCAC is not under the jurisdiction of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Samson assured that collaboration is ongoing. He cited instances where agencies such as the Department of Public Works and Highways consult with the Army on areas that could benefit from government road projects, particularly those that are difficult to access or have been overlooked.
Samson reiterated the existence and continued efforts of the NTF-ELCAC and expressed hope for the support of newly elected and reelected leaders in these initiatives.
