• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The municipal government of Cauayan and several people’s organizations have condemned the atrocities allegedly perpetrated by the New People’s Army in hinterland barangays of the town.
In a statement, Mayor John Rey Tabujara denounced the “violence, intimidation, and disturbance” allegedly caused by the rebel group in the municipality.
Tabujara said the local government of Cauayan will not tolerate any threat to the safety and security of civilians.
Based on records of the Police Regional Office – Negros Island Region, two residents of Cauayan were among the 26 individuals allegedly killed by the NPA in southern Negros from 2025 up to April this year, according to reports of the Philippine Army’s 302nd Infantry Brigade.
The victims were identified as a barangay kagawad of Barangay Tambad and a purok chairwoman of Barangay Lina-aon, who were killed in separate incidents in October and November last year.
A condemnation rally was also staged at the Cauayan public plaza by Sambayanan-Negros led by Jonel Moreno, together with various people’s organizations headed by Rodwil Gramatico, on May 16.
About 40 residents joined the activity, which condemned the violent actions and alleged atrocities carried out by the CPP-NPA in the Negros Island Region.
Organizers said the rally also aimed to raise public awareness on the alleged exploitation and recruitment of youth by left-leaning organizations through sectoral engagements.
The activity underscored the importance of community participation in supporting government peace initiatives and protecting the welfare of the youth against extremist influence.
Tabujara said the activities of the NPA have disrupted peace in Cauayan communities and caused fear and distress among residents.
“Cauayan will not tolerate any threat to the safety, security, and well-being of our people,” the mayor said.
He added that the local government remains in close coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to secure affected areas, protect communities, and restore peace and order.
“We urge all Cauayanons to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative with our uniformed personnel. Together, we stand united for peace, security, and the protection of Cauayan,” Tabujara added.
Meanwhile, in a separate statement, the NPA Apolinario Gatmaitan Command honored five of its fighters who were killed in recent encounters in Cauayan, claiming that they sacrificed their lives in the struggle against what the group described as exploitation and oppression of Negrosanons.*
