Army seizes weapons, halts NPA from regrouping in northern Negros

March 20, 2025

Philippine Army troopers from the 79th Infantry Battalion (IB) has prevented insurgents from regrouping in northern Negros and seized weapons from New People’s Army (NPA) remnants following a clash in Toboso, Negros Occidental.

In a report on Wednesday, the 3rd Infantry Division (ID) said the 79IB soldiers engaged at least seven remnants of the dismantled Northern Negros Front (NNF) in Sitio Bairan, Barangay General Luna Tuesday morning.

After the encounter, the troops recovered various weapons that include an M16 assault rifle, caliber 38mm revolver, firearm magazines and assorted ammunition, along with food items, personal belongings, and subversive documents.

“The fight against insurgency continues, but our efforts are not solely focused on military action. We extend a hand of peace. Lay down your arms, choose a different path,” 3ID commander Maj. Gen. Michael Samson said in a statement.

The clash in Toboso came after 79IB troops encountered NNF remnants in the hinterlands of Cadiz City on March 8, resulting in the death of two leaders of the Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor –Hans Ponteras, acting regional front secretary and finance officer of the Regional Taxation Implementing Group, and regional communications officer Marissa Pobresa.

Meanwhile, Mayor Madonnah Jaojoco ordered the indefinite suspension of classes in the two affected villages starting Wednesday as pursuit operations continue.

“Classes in all levels in Barangay General Luna and in Barangay Tabun-ac Elementary School will be suspended effective March 19 until the revocation of this order to ensure the safety of learners and/or students and school personnel from the ongoing armed encounter,” she said.

As of Wednesday, 412 residents or 122 families have been staying in two evacuation centers at the Barangay General Luna covered court and Amparado Elementary School.

The municipal government said they are being provided with food and other essential needs.* (Nanette Guadalquiver/PNA)