NPA torches mining equipment in Negros Oriental

PHOTO from Central Command

MANILA, Philippines — The New People’s Army burned heavy equipment owned by a mining firm in Negros Oriental on Tuesday, New Year’s Day, the military said.

The nine backhoes and two payloaders were torched in Barangay Jandalamanon Ayungon, Negros Oriental past 11 p.m., Cpt. Joe Patrick Martinez, acting public affairs chief of Central Command, said in a statement on Thursday.

Two of these equipment were beyond repair while the rest incurred minimal damage, he said.

Based on the initial investigation by the police, the communist rebels burned the equipment due to Pilipinas Eco-Friendly Mining Corporation’s firm stand against extortion and the recent deaths of their comrades in Guihulngan.

Lt. Gen. Noel Clement, commander of Central Command, has ordered a “no let-up” pursuit operation against the rebels.

“We will not let these terror groups to sow fear,” he said. /ee