AFP condemns rebel attack in Negros Occidental

MANILA -- The Armed Forces said Friday that they condemned the attack in Negros Occidental on Sunday by the New People's Army (NPA) which resulted in the death of nine people, eight of whom are civilians, and injuries to nine.

"While we support the efforts of the government for peace and development, our focused combat operations will continue to target those who continue to pursue armed violence that has caused suffering to our people and loss of innocent lives," military spokesperson Col. Arnulfo M. Burgos Jr. said.

He added the NPA perpetrated the attack despite the openness of the AFP to rebels returning to the democratic fold.

"The NPAs continue to wage armed violence, disrupt the peace-building initiatives of the government and even disrespect the peace process by violating past ceasefire pronouncements," Burgos said.

The military spokesperson said Sunday's attack on non-combatants is clearly another violation of the Comprehensive Agreement on Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law they signed.

"Moreover, they continue to capitalize on soft targets, often resolving to inhumane tactics including the use of improvised explosive devices, conduct of ambuscades, extortion activities, and sabotage of vital economic facilities," Burgos stated.

The AFP is now coordinating with the National Police activated Task Force La Castellana to do pursuit operations against the perpetrators.

"Our troops in the area will strictly follow the rules of engagement and will respect and promote human rights in all our operations," he added. (PNA)