TACLOBAN CITY -- The Philippine Army condemned the New People’s Army (NPA) for attacking two soldiers tasked to do community work in conflict-stricken villages in Las Navas, Northern Samar.
In a statement issued Thursday, the Army’s 8th Infantry Division based in Catbalogan City, Samar said that the attack is proof that communist rebels are anti-development.
“The two soldiers were in the area not to combat, but to help transform conflict-affected areas into progressive and sustainable communities through collective and collaborative efforts with local government units and line agencies,” the Army said.
Both soldiers were tasked to buy food supplies in the market in San Miguel village late Tuesday afternoon. While on their way back, they were shot several times by assailants. Members of the NPA’s special partisan unit were behind the attack, according to the military.
Corporal Jaype Malbas was wounded while private 1st class Rommel Debuton died upon arrival at the nearest hospital, according to the military report.
The Army launched hot-pursuit operations to apprehend these terrorists.
In his statement, Farnacio conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family, friends, and loved ones of the soldier who died while performing his duty.”
“Your Army will be more steadfast in its campaign, now, that we are under a state of national emergency, in suppressing lawless elements from sowing fear in the hearts and minds of vulnerable communities located in remote areas. These terrorists are depriving the people to act, think, and live normally,” Farnacio added.
Malacañang issued on Nov. 22, 2018 Memorandum Order No. 32 declaring a state of national emergency in the provinces of Samar, Negros Oriental and Occidental, and Bicol Region amid "sporadic acts of violence allegedly committed by lawless groups particularly.”
The order, titled “Reinforcing the guidelines for the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police in the implementation of measures to suppress and prevent lawless violence,” ordered the Department of National Defense and the Department of the Interior and Local Government to coordinate with each other in deploying the troops. (PNA)
