• THERESA MAE DULMAN
A Eucharistic celebration was held for the first time in the isolated, mountainous area of Sitio Manipolon, Barangay Pandanon Silos, Murcia, Negros Occidental, to offer prayers for those who died during a military clash 36 years ago.
Rev. Fr. Salvador “Badong” Barcelona led the Holy Mass Aug. 21, accompanied by youth members from the Immaculate Conception Parish of Murcia, Amayco barangay officials, and members of Bantay Bukid.
The site was the location of a major armed confrontation on April 6, 1990, where Capt. Arturo Ortiz led the 606th Special Forces Company in an 11-hour night march up a 1,000-foot cliff to infiltrate the NPA’s largest training camp in Negros. The raid resulted in the deaths of 84 rebels and the capture of eight others.
Favorable weather conditions after a few days of heavy rains allowed attendees and residents to journey for six hours and gather around an improvised altar for the memorial service.
During his homily, Fr. Barcelona emphasized learning from historical tragedies so that past mistakes are not repeated.
The religious gathering served as a long-awaited opportunity to bring spiritual peace and honor the memory of those who lost their lives there. | TMD
