Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson on Monday urged an end to the clash between the New People’s Army (NPA) and Philippine Army troopers that started Oct 6, 2022 in Barangay Carabalan, Himamaylan City which resulted in the displacement of thousands of residents in the area.
“I think it is unfortunate, as of this time there is no clearance yet for the evacuees to return to their respective areas,” Lacson said.
As of the latest report submitted to him, the governor said the affected families reached 3,500 or 15,000 individuals.
“I am hoping that we can let them return to their homes as soon as possible because the longer they stay at the evacuation center the harder it becomes for the government to take care of them,” Lacson said.
He added these families also have their animals left at home which they have to take care of.
“We are just waiting for the clearance from the Philippine Army,” the governor further said.
He also said the provincial government through the Provincial Social Welfare Development has already extended assistance to the evacuees in terms of foodstuff.
As far as putting an Army detachment in the area is concerned, Lacson said it depends on the military.
The clashes resulted in two soldiers being killed while six others were wounded and an undetermined number of casualties on the rebels’ side, the military said.
Both the offices of Himamaylan City Mayor Raymund Tongson and 5th District Rep. Dino Yulo extended assistance to the evacuees housed in seven evacuation centers in the said locality.
(Dolly Yasa via The Daily Guardian, photo courtesy of The Daily Guardian)