Malaybalay City, Bukidnon – The Philippine Army’s 403rd Infantry “Peacemaker” Brigade has extended full assistance to the families of four slain members of the New People’s Army (NPA) following a clash in the hinterlands of North Central Mindanao.
According to Brigadier General Seigfred C. Tubalado, commander of the 403rd Brigade, government troops recovered the bodies of four NPA fighters belonging to the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) after an armed encounter. The casualties were identified as Noel Gabote alias Julius/Jose, Bador Arrellano alias Choy, Noel Domino alias Noel/Jairo/Renz, and Roxanne Saraus alias Sham/Yanda/Yas/Nine.
Despite bad weather conditions, the remains were airlifted from the encounter site and transported to their respective hometowns. The Army coordinated with local government units, the Philippine National Police, and other agencies to facilitate a smooth and immediate turnover to their families.
Peacemaker troops assisted relatives in processing documents and arranging transportation, ensuring that the deceased were laid to rest with dignity and respect.
“The Brigade remains steadfast in its mission to protect the people, promote peace, and preserve life. Let us not waste our time fighting for the wrong ideologies and leaving behind our families who long for the warmth of our embrace in moments we can never take back,” said BGen. Tubalado.
He stressed that while the NPA members were abandoned by their comrades at the encounter site, the Army recognized their humanity and treated them with compassion.
The 403rd Brigade reiterated its commitment to upholding the Rules of Engagement and humanitarian principles even in the midst of conflict, underscoring that the pursuit of peace remains its foremost mission.