In Negros Occidental, evacuees return home after clashes end

In Negros Occidental, evacuees return home after clashes end

BACOLOD CITY—Evacuees from the town of Toboso and Escalante City in Negros Occidental have returned home on Sunday after the security situation has gradually stabilized in the two localities following a series of encounters between government troopers and the New People’s Army last week.

Lt. Col. J-Jay Javines, spokesperson for the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID), said there have been no more reported sightings of armed rebels, which signaled a positive shift toward peace and normalcy.

“However, the Army continues its diligent clearing operations to ensure the area remains secure,” he said in an interview on Monday.

Three suspected rebels were killed in the encounters while three soldiers and a militiaman were hurt.

The bodies of slain alleged rebels—identified as Emaryn Pastedio alias “Jandie,” Christopher Ebarle alias “Michael” and Jose Caramihan alias “Jose”—were brought to Shekainah Funeral Homes in Escalante City, where their relatives can claim them.

Maj. Gen. Marion Sison, 3ID commander, said the airstrike on Feb. 22 against the fleeing rebels underscored the military’s commitment to address threats posed by insurgent activities, particularly in areas where civilians’ safety and well-being are compromised.

“The timing and precision of the military operation reflect a responsive military capability that can ensure the protection of communities affected by the presence of the rebels,” he said.

Returning displaced individuals to their homes is crucial in restoring stability and rebuilding communities in Escalante and Toboso, Sison said.

Financial, food aid

Toboso Councilor Richard Jaojoco said classes resumed in the town on Monday, with the return of the evacuees to their homes.

The Western Visayas Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office-Disaster Response Management Division provided P971,364 in assistance to the displaced individuals in Escalante City and Toboso who had to flee their homes during the clashes.

“The DSWD Field Office VI is

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