The death toll in the armed clash between government forces and members of the New People’s Army on Friday, Aug. 20, in Hacienda Raymunda, Brgy.Kapitan Ramon in Silay City, Negros Occidental, rose to three, after a cadaver of a suspected rebel was recovered by 79th Infantry Battalion soldiers during pursuit operations.
The encounter claimed the life of PFC Christopher Alada, of Badiangan, Iloilo, who was hit in the head during the 35-minute gunbattle with about 10 NPA rebels.
Lt. Col. J-Jay Javines, 79th IB commander, said the two slain rebels were not yet identified.
Alada was declared dead on arrival at a private hospital in Bacolod City, said Army regional spokesman Maj. Cenon Pancito.
Recovered from the encounter site were an M16 assault rifle with a magazine containing 16 ammunition, a bandoleer, 10 sling bags, a pair of rain boots, two pairs of rubber shoes, two Baofeng radios with charger, assorted medical paraphernalia, and a backpack containing subversive documents.
Javines also said that bloodstains were discovered along the rebels withdrawal routes, which may indicate that some fleeing rebels were injured.
“We are saddened by the loss of our troop, but we salute his bravery and heroism. Rest assured that his sacrifices will not be futile.” Javines said.
He also commended the operating troops for the swift response, and the people of Silay for their cooperation that led to the successful conduct of operation in the area.
The rebels encountered by the 79IB may have been remnants of the Northern Negros Front dismantled early this year, Pancito said.
Javines added that joint AFP-PNP checkpoints have been established in the area to support the ongoing pursuit operations against the escaping rebels. –GB
