By Xander Ledesma
Six members of the New People’s Army (NPA) Southwest Front were killed in a clash with government forces on November 21, 2024, in Barangay Gatuslao, Candoni. The incident occurred around 3:40 AM during an operation conducted by the 47th and 15th Infantry Battalions under the 302nd Infantry Brigade.
Brig. Gen. Joey Escanillas, commander of the 302nd Infantry Brigade, confirmed that military personnel were patrolling the area when they encountered the armed group, resulting in a prolonged exchange of fire. No casualties were reported among government forces.
Authorities recovered several high-powered firearms from the scene. The bodies of the six NPA members were retrieved for identification and processing.
This engagement is part of ongoing military operations in Negros Occidental, a region with a long history of insurgency. The NPA has been classified as a terrorist organization by the Philippine government and other nations.
Military units are continuing search operations in the area. Local authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.