• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The local government unit of Cauayan and various people’s organizations (POs) have condemned the atrocities perpetrated and claimed by the New People’s Army (NPA) in the town’s hinterland barangays.
In a statement, Cauayan Mayor John Rey Tabujara condemned the “violence, intimidation and disturbance” caused by the NPA in the southern Negros municipality.
Tabujara said the municipal government will not tolerate any threats to civilian safety.
Of the 26 killings allegedly carried out by the NPA in southern Negros since 2025, two of the victims were from Cauayan, a village councilman of Barangay Tambad and a purok chairwoman in Barangay Lina-aon, reports of the Police Regional Office- Negros Island Region showed.
Tabujara said the NPA’s actions have disrupted peace in their communities and caused distress among the residents.
“Cauayan will not tolerate any threat to the safety, security, and well-being of our people,” he said.
He added that the local government remains in close coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to secure affected areas, protect communities, and restore peace and order.
“We urge all Cauayanons to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative with our uniformed personnel. Together, we stand united for peace, security, and the protection of Cauayan,” the local chief executive said.
Sambayanan-Negros led by Jonel Moreno and various POs led by Rodwil Gramatico held a condemnation rally at the town plaza on Monday, May 18.
The activity, participated by about 40 town residents, condemned the violent actions and atrocities carried out by Community Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) groups in Negros.
The rally also sought to increase public awareness regarding the purported exploitation and recruitment of youth by left-leaning organizations through sectoral engagements.
It also underscored the importance of community participation in supporting government peace initiatives and protecting the welfare of the youth against extremist influence. | GB
