Three Alleged NPA Members Killed in Negros Occidental Encounter with Philippine Army
An early morning encounter between the Philippine Army and alleged members of the New People's Army (NPA) in Negros Occidental resulted in the deaths of three individuals, including a native of Carcar City, Cebu. The incident occurred on Saturday, March 21, 2026, in Sitio Santol, Barangay Tampalon, Kabankalan City, following reports of armed Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) presence in the area.
Details of the Firefight and Recovered Items
The firefight with the 47th Infantry Battalion lasted approximately two minutes and led to the neutralization of the three alleged NPA members. Identified as Ritchell "Ka Makoy" Verano, also known as "Venom," aged 26, along with Milky "Gorting" Sampini and Joedil "Junjun/Cairo" Balsimo, they were killed during the operation. The military reported no casualties on the government side.
After the encounter, soldiers recovered a cache of high-powered firearms and other materials from the site. This included:
- An R4 rifle
- Two M16 rifles
- Two M203 grenade launchers
- A hand grenade
- Various documents
These items are believed to be linked to the group's activities in the region.
Background of the Deceased and Military Statements
Verano, who grew up in a low-income neighborhood in Carcar, Cebu, later moved to Barangay Trinidad in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental. He reportedly joined Kabataang Makabayan in 2015 and became part of the Pulang Hukbo in Central Negros by 2017. In 2025, he was deployed to Southwest Negros, according to military sources.
Maj. Gen. Michael Samson, commander of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division, stated that the slain NPA members were connected to multiple violent incidents across Negros Island. These incidents included killings and arson attacks that have plagued local communities.
"With their neutralization, justice has been served for the victims and their families and the community can begin to heal," Samson emphasized during a press briefing.
Ongoing Anti-Insurgency Efforts and Calls for Surrender
The Philippine Army highlighted that this operation represents a significant milestone in its ongoing anti-insurgency campaign within the Negros Island Region. It underscores the persistent reach of communist movements into various provinces, including Cebu, despite military efforts to curb their influence.
In light of this event, the military has issued a renewed call for remaining CTG members to surrender. They pointed to available government programs designed to facilitate reintegration into society, such as:
- The Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP)
- The Amnesty Program
These initiatives aim to provide support and opportunities for rebels seeking to leave the armed struggle and return to civilian life.
The encounter serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing security challenges in the region, with authorities continuing to monitor and respond to threats posed by insurgent groups.
