THE military has identified the high-ranking female party cadre and one other who died in a clash between the troops of the 79th Infantry "Masaligan" Battalion (79IB) and the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) on Friday, August 20, 2021, at Hacienda Raymunda, Kapitan Ramon, Silay City.
The two were identified as Kerima Lorena Tariman-Acosta alias Ella/Em-em from Legazpi City, Albay and a certain "Pabling" whose full identity is yet to be determined.
Lieutenant Colonel J-jay Javines, commanding officer of 79IB, as a reaction said, "I am deeply saddened that lives were wasted and unnecessarily lost because of this senseless revolutionary armed struggle in an attempt to defend a futile ideology.”
"This incident should serve as a forewarning for those who are lured and tempted to join the NPA terrorist group. Don’t be blinded by their sweet tongue and false promises. I'm telling you frankly, as well as several others who have gone before you but surrendered, there is absolutely nothing in store for you there," Javines added.
Javines reiterated his call for the remaining rebel members operating in Northern Negros to abandon the rebels' useless revolutionary struggle, lay down their firearms, and chose the path to peace and live peaceful and normal lives with their loved ones.
“You all certainly deserve a much better and brighter future", he said.