A SOLDIER was injured after state troopers figured in two encounters with the remnants of the SouthWest Front of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Cauayan town and Sipalay City, Negros Occidental on Wednesday, January 18.

The first encounter between the Army and the rebels occurred at Barangay Camalandaan, Cauayan town after government forces responded to the area following the reports of alleged extortion activities.

The pursuing soldiers encountered the NPAs again at neighboring Sitio Malipayon, Barangay San Jose, Sipalay City, which wounded one state trooper, who is now in stable condition.

This prompted some 200 residents to flee their homes for safety, as the city government of Sipalay has provided them with relief assistance.

Brigadier General Leonardo Peña, commander of the Army’s 302nd Infantry Brigade, said they will continue with their efforts to end insurgency, as the rebel group in the area has already weakened.

He stressed that collaboration of the community, the local government, and the state forces is vital to end the armed struggle. (MPE)