Negros occidental: The Philippine Army's 15th Infantry Battalion (15IB) on Monday called for community cooperation to eradicate the presence of the New People's Army (NPA) in southern Negros. The call to action follows the execution of 74-year-old Leonora 'Leonor' Anguit by armed men allegedly affiliated with the NPA in Barangay Tapi, Kabankalan City on February 3.
According to Philippines News Agency, the 15IB, stationed in Cauayan town, urged citizens in the sixth district of Negros Occidental to resist fear and unite in the fight for peace. They emphasized the need for unity to eliminate the influence of the NPA and ensure a safe, orderly, and peaceful future. The sixth district encompasses the municipalities of Ilog, Candoni, Hinoba-an, and Sipalay City, in addition to Cauayan and Kabankalan.
In a prior statement, Lt. Col. Roberto Maduli, commanding officer of 15IB, confirmed their active coordination with the Philippine National Police and the local government to secure a thorough investigation. Maduli assured the community of their commitment to justice through lawful means and urged public support by providing information that could aid in the ongoing investigation.
Over the weekend, the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) called on the PNP to intensify efforts in manhunts, evidence-gathering, and case build-up to facilitate arrests and strong prosecutions. They also urged the Armed Forces of the Philippines and intelligence units to enhance focused operations against armed groups responsible for 'liquidations,' particularly in threatened barangays.
Reports indicate that Anguit's home had previously been occupied by seven NPA remnants killed in a clash with Philippine Army soldiers in April of the previous year. The NTF-ELCAC highlighted that Anguit was one of 26 civilians killed after being labeled as 'informants.' Ernesto Torres Jr., executive director of NTF-ELCAC, condemned these actions, noting that the killings were claimed by NPA units, demonstrating a disturbing pride in targeting unarmed civilians. He stated, "This is not revolution. It is terror."
