PNP tightens security in Negros Occidental after Army clash with NPA

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. ordered the agency to intensify its presence and security measures in Negros Occidental following a clash between government forces and the New People’s Army (NPA).

“Our top priority is to ensure the safety of our communities while operations continue in Negros Occidental,” Nartatez said Tuesday. “This is to ensure stability and prevent further escalation of violence in the area.”

READ: NPA leader, 18 other rebels slain in Negros

“We are coordinating with the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) and local government units to immediately restore normalcy in the affected areas,” he added.

Soldiers from the 79th Infantry Battalion engaged the alleged members of the NPA after a tip from locals that the rebels had a temporary encampment in Sitio Sinugmawan in Barangay Salamanca, Toboso over the weekend.

The development led to a series of encounters that killed at least 19 alleged NPA members, including a rebel leader who is wanted for a P2-million bounty. /mcm