Manapla: The Police Regional Office - Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) has condemned the latest atrocity by remnants of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army (NPA), which resulted in the death of a former barangay councilman in Manapla, Negros Occidental.

According to Philippines News Agency, the incident occurred when alias 'Pablo,' 54, was shot dead by a lone assailant outside his house in Hacienda Cabayao. The investigation revealed that three suspects, identified as members of the CPP-NPA through the Philippine National Police e-rogue system, were involved in the killing. Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay assured the victim's family and the public that they are committed to pursuing justice for this act of violence.

The victim was reportedly targeted by the rebel remnants due to a mistaken belief that he was an informant for the Philippine Army. The Manapla Municipal Police have gathered sworn statements from witnesses and are awaiting further examination results before filing the case.

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Joem Malong, spokesperson of PRO-NIR, reported that the police are also investigating another fatal shooting of a farmer in Barangay Bug-ang, Toboso. Alias 'Bemboy,' 35, was attacked by two unidentified men on his way home, resulting in his death. The police are considering all angles, including the possibility of a connection to the Manapla incident.

Scene of the crime operatives recovered bullet shells from the crime scene, and the PRO-NIR is collaborating with the Philippine Army to identify and apprehend the suspects. Brig. Gen. Ibay emphasized the commitment to mobilize resources to ensure justice for the victims and their families.

The recent killings by NPA remnants in northern Negros have raised concerns, with the Philippine Army's 79th Infantry Battalion dismissing claims that the victims were military intelligence personnel.