Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Romeo S. Brawner Jr. Visited front-line troops in Negros Occidental on Saturday, May 2, to urge the military to sustain recent gains against communist rebels. The visit took place at the headquarters of the 79th Infantry “Masaligan” Battalion in Barangay Bato, Sagay City.
Focus on Lasting Peace
During his visit, General Brawner emphasized that military successes must be converted into stable, long-term peace on the ground. He instructed troops to remain focused on their mission and highlighted that maintaining strong community ties is essential to prevent insurgents from returning.
General Brawner stated that this visit is both an opportunity to commend your steadfast service and to reaffirm our shared commitment to securing lasting peace in your area of responsibility
. He further noted that the campaign is not just a military effort but a collective stand of communities choosing progress over fear
.
Recognition of Bravery
In a separate but related action, Philippine Army (PA) Commanding General Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete awarded the Military Merit Medal to two soldiers injured in clashes with the NPA. One soldier was wounded during the April 19 operation in Brgy. Salamanca, Toboso, sustaining gunshot wounds to both arms.
Lt. Gen. Nafarrete visited the Toboso soldier, whose identity remains confidential for security reasons, at the hospital of Camp Gen. Macario Peralta Jr. In Jamindan, Capiz. A second Military Merit Medal was conferred upon another soldier wounded in a separate encounter in Calatrava, Negros Occidental.
Civilian and Military Cooperation
Lt. Gen. Nafarrete stated that these awards underscore the risks faced by troops and the ongoing efforts to contain the dwindling rebel forces in the region. He assured the injured personnel of the Army’s full support for their recovery.
The 79th Infantry Battalion too received a commendation from the Toboso municipal government. The local government recognized the unit’s commitment to safety and security, specifically regarding the management of the aftermath of recent encounters in the town.
Future Outlook
Given the current momentum, the military may continue to prioritize intelligence-driven and community-supported operations to further isolate rebel remnants. Continued coordination between the 79IB and local municipal governments could lead to increased stability in Negros Occidental.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who visited the 79th Infantry Battalion in Sagay City?
General Romeo S. Brawner Jr., the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, visited the troops on May 2.
What occurred during the April 19 encounter in Toboso?
The encounter in Brgy. Salamanca claimed 19 lives, including NPA commander Roger Fabillar, and resulted in a soldier sustaining gunshot wounds to both arms.
What medals were awarded to the wounded soldiers?
Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete conferred the Military Merit Medal on two soldiers wounded in separate encounters in Toboso and Calatrava.
Do you believe community-led progress is more effective than military force in securing long-term peace?
