Toboso: The recent neutralization of 19 remnants of the dismantled New People's Army's (NPA) Northern Negros Front in Toboso, Negros Occidental, was due to accurate intelligence and precise execution of a battle plan, the Philippine Army's 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) said on Tuesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, 3ID commander Maj. Gen. Michael Samson emphasized that these efforts are focused on permanently stopping the atrocities and killings and ensuring justice for their victims. "Backed by reliable information and executed with precision, these combat operations are part of the Army's continuing efforts in Negros to neutralize all remnants and achieve total victory in the fight against insurgency," he stated.
The Toboso running gun battle has resulted in the highest number of casualties among the NPA guerrilla fronts on Negros Island in decades. On April 19, a series of clashes in Barangay Salamanca, Toboso, led to the death of wanted NPA hitman Roger Fabillar and his 18 comrades. The troops from the 79th Infantry Battalion discovered their lair in Sitio Sinugmawan at dawn and engaged them until the afternoon, pushing the fighting to Sitio Plarinding.
Fabillar's death concludes a four-year manhunt by authorities, as he was linked to the summary executions of civilians accused of being military spies. A soldier was wounded but is now in stable condition at a hospital in Bacolod City.
In a report, the 3ID mentioned that the troops recovered an assault rifle, two rifle grenades, a hand grenade, bandoliers, 20 hammocks, backpacks, food supplies, and other personal items. "We commend the bravery and determination of our operating troops, as well as the vigilance and cooperation of the Negrenses," Samson said.
The 3ID also stated that the situation at the encounter site in Barangay Salamanca has stabilized after hundreds of residents near the border of Toboso and Escalante City were evacuated to safety amid the clashes. "We are assuring residents that they are safe at their respective homes," it added.
