The Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (ID) declared that the New People’s Army (NPA) in Western Visayas cannot influence the May 12 midterm elections.
Maj. Marion Sison, 3rd ID commander, attributed this to the neutralization of top NPA leaders and a series of armed encounters that weakened the group.
Panay Island has been cleared of communist threats, with no barangay or town tagged as rebel-influenced.
Last year, the 3rd ID engaged in 63 clashes with the NPA, leading to the neutralization of 116 rebels and the surrender or capture of 69 others.
The division is preparing to declare Panay Island under Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) status.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 14, 2025
