By Nimfa L. Estrellado Amidst ongoing security efforts, Tagkawayan LGU prepares for the burial of an NPA rebel, with Mayor Eleazar renewing ...
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| Amidst ongoing security efforts, Tagkawayan LGU prepares for the burial of an NPA rebel, with Mayor Eleazar renewing his call for peace and surrender. (Tagkawayan Teleradyo) |
TAGKAWAYAN, Quezon – With a recent rebel confrontation successfully repelled, Mayor Carlo Eleazar has assured residents that peace and order in Tagkawayan remain secure. The mayor credited the quick action of the military and local citizens for stopping the August 2 clash in Barangay Maguibuay, which resulted in the death of one rebel and the seizure of several high-powered guns.
The clash, which lasted for 20 minutes, occurred during a security operation by the 16th Infantry Battalion, a unit of the 2nd Infantry (Jungle Fighter) Division. Following the firefight, government forces seized an AK-47 rifle, an M16A1 rifle, an M203 grenade launcher, ammunition, and other equipment.
"Tagkawayan maintains its Stable Internal Peace and Security," said Eleazar. "The New People's Army's attempt to enter was blocked and repelled by our security forces with the help of our people."We in Tagkawayan are firm that we no longer want this; we want to end the more than 50 years of conflict in our town."
The mayor added that the local government is working closely with the military and police to ensure safety and development in every village. This is a collaboration he highlighted, noting that the security operation was prompted by information from residents.
"The Municipal Government of Tagkawayan sincerely expresses its support and gratitude to the Philippine Army, particularly the 16th Infantry (Maglilingkod) Battalion, for their continued efforts to safeguard the peace and security of our town," he said.
Mayor Eleazar had appealed to the family of the slain NPA member, identified as Sandy P. Broncaino, also known as 'Tau,' to claim the body. Since no relatives came forward, the local government conducted the burial on August 5 at the Public Cemetery.
The mayor assured the public that the body was handled with respect and dignity, in accordance with humanitarian and religious principles. He emphasized that these actions were taken to honor the deceased's rights as a person and a Filipino, and a representative of the Catholic Church had also provided a blessing.
The mayor also renewed his call for remaining members of the rebel group to surrender and take advantage of government programs to help them return to normal life. "I am once again calling on our countrymen, let us be watchful and cooperate to end this violence."We are losing the lives of young people who become the cause of chaos in our town," he added.
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