NPA member killed in operation vs alleged election-related extortion
A MEMBER of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in a clash with troops of the 8th Infantry Battalion in Malitbog, Bukidnon last May 4. The operation reportedly stemmed from reports that the NPA were demanding payments for a Permit to Campaign (PTC) and Permit to Win (PTW) from barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) candidates. “We will establish grounds and verify on the reports received from concerned populace with regards to NPA terrorists asking PTC and PTW. Meanwhile, we affirm that our soldiers will continue to uphold the peaceful undertaking of the synchronized Barangay and SK elections. We will be extra vigilant to avoid any chaos that the NPA terrorists may do to disrupt the election,” Brigadier General Eric C. Vinoya, commander of 403rd Infantry Brigade, said. — Minde Nyl R. dela Cruz
