The Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) has established a Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) “Toboso” to identify the remains recovered from an armed encounter in Sitio Sinugmawan, Barangay Salamanca, Toboso, Negros Occidental, on April 19, 2026. At least 19 members of the dismantled Northern Negros Front (NNF) were killed in the clash.
Task Force Mandate
Lieutenant Colonel Joem Malong, PRO-NIR Public Information Office chief, stated that Brigadier General Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO-NIR director, ordered the creation of SITG Toboso to ensure proper identification of the fatalities. The task force will employ forensic examination, documentation, and coordination with local government units and relatives of the deceased.
Identified Victims
Through sustained coordination and verification efforts, eight cadavers have been positively identified and subsequently confirmed and claimed by their families. The identified fatalities are:
- Rene Villarin Sr., alias Kumader Pikot, 58, resident of Sitio Huwebisan, Barangay Marcelo, Calatrava, Negros Occidental
- Roger Fabillar Tapang, alias Jhong/Arnel, 36, resident of Sitio Malig-on, Barangay Bandila, Toboso
- Ruel Sabillo, 19, resident of Sitio Singiton, Barangay Tabun-ak, Toboso
- Sonny Boy Caramihan, 28, resident of Sitio Batbataw, Barangay Bagonbon, San Carlos City, Negros Occidental
- Pedro Bonghanoy, 32, resident of Barangay Libertad, Escalante City
- Arnel Javoc, 32, resident of Sitio Labay-ao, Barangay Lalong, Calatrava, Negros Occidental
- Joros Caramihan, 18, resident of Don Salvador Benedicto, Negros Occidental
- A 17-year-old male minor, resident of Escalante City, Negros Occidental
Ongoing Identification Efforts
Ibay highlighted that the successful identification and release of the cadavers to their families reflect the professionalism, compassion, and commitment of PRO-NIR in carrying out lawful police duties while respecting humanitarian considerations. He noted that PRO-NIR’s continuing efforts are now focused on identifying the remaining fatalities through follow-up coordination with possible relatives, validation of submitted information, review of available records, and further medico-legal and forensic documentation. Authorities are also facilitating the orderly release of confirmed cadavers to their families once all documentary and legal requirements are completed.
Commitment to Peace
Ibay reiterated that PRO-NIR will continue to work closely with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, local government units, and the community to protect the people, uphold the rule of law, and sustain peace across Negros Island.
