THE management of Northern Negros Natural Park (NNNP) has ordered the suspension of major trekking activities in the place due to the presence of insurgents in some of the hinterlands of the province.

Engineer Joan Nathaniel Gerangaya, NNNP Protected Area superintendent, in a special order, said trekking activities are suspended in the areas of Tinagong Dagat, Danao, Sulfutara, and Pandong Bato.

Meanwhile, minor trekking activities in the areas of Mayana Peak in San Carlos City, Malatan-og and Kawa Waterfalls in Don Salvador Benedicto and Malisbog, Dumalabdab and Pulang Tubig Waterfalls in Silay City will continue.

Previously, several gun battles between government forces and insurgents of the New People’s Army (NPA) occurred in areas covered by the NNNP.

The latest was in August when government forces belonging to the Philippine Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion clashed with the NPA in Barangay Kapitan Ramon in Silay City, resulting in the death of a soldier and two rebels.

In April 2021, the NPA also torched several heavy equipment in Barangay Consing, EB Magalona town.

During the arson incident, the rebels also kidnapped and murdered a village watchman.