The 11th Infantry Battalion has established a temporary patrol base in Brgy. Quintin Remo, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental, aimed at curtailing the movement of the New People’s Army in central Negros.

Lt. Col. Ramil Bitong, 11th Infantry Battalion commander, yesterday confirmed the redeployment of some of his troops to hinterland barangays of Moises Padilla, being used as bailiwicks of the NPA.

Two former government militiamen were earlier summarily executed by suspected rebels in Brgys. Quintin Remo and Macagahay, all in Moises Padilla. This was followed by the burning of a tractor in Brgy.Cabacungan, La Castellana, military records show.

Juanito Magbanua, spokesman of the Apolinario “Boy” Gatmaitan Command, said in a statement they issued, that they will further intensify their “tactical offensives” against government forces in Negros, and frustrate what he calls the anti-people Oplan Bayanihan campaign of the Armed Forces.

The 1st Scout Ranger Battalion and a reconnaissance company unit of the 3rd Infantry Division are also assisting the 11th IB in the maintenance of peace and order in central Negros.

While some forces of the 11th Infantry Battalion were redeployed from Negros Oriental to Moises Padilla, the Army infantry unit also launched its second “Bayanihan para sa Kabataan- Securing the Youth” Program on Jan. 24, at the Guihulngan National High School.

1Lt. Von Ryan Gomez, 11IB Civil Military Operations officer, said this program is a supplemental classroom instructions intended to benefit fourth year high school students.

“ It primarily aims to secure the youth from the influence of lawless elements and destructive vices, and to promote love of country and responsible citizenship,” Gomez said.

The memorandum of agreement for the launching of the program was signed by GNHS principal Geronimo Ygoña and Maj. Jesus Pagala, and witnessed by Guihulngan Mayor Ernesto Reyes and Maridel Gamo of the Department of Interior and Local Government members of Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire and Protection.

The program also includes lectures on disaster preparedness, environmental protection and preservations, survival tips and earthquake and fire drills, among others, earlier also conducted by the 11IB at the St. Francis Academy School in Vallehermoso, Negros Oriental.* GPB

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