• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The killings perpetrated by remnants of the New People’s Army (NPA) continue as they claim responsibility for the death of two more civilians in the hinterlands of Calatrava, Negros Occidental.
In a statement, the Roselyn Jean Pelle Command said they executed Jemar Mahusay, 53, in Sitio Agbalatuan, Barangay Dolis on May 5, and Gerry Baitan, 53, in Sitio Proper, Barangay Minautok on May 13.
They accused Baitan as a military asset while they linked Mahusay to illegal activities.
Initial police investigation showed that Baitan and his daughter were preparing for dinner when three unidentified persons entered their house and shot the victim.
Baitan was declared dead on arrival at the Calatrava Municipal Hospital.
According to the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the deaths of at least 36 civilians in northern Negros since 2025 were claimed by the NPA.
Roger Fabillar Tapang, who led the NPA remnants responsible for the summary executions, were among the 19 rebels killed during the encounters in the neighboring Toboso on April 19. | GB
