ILOILO City – The Philippine Army’s 301st Infantry Brigade (301IB) has successfully dismantled two guerrilla fronts of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Panay Island, earning recognition during the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) 89th Anniversary celebration held at Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo in Quezon City.
The dismantling of the NPA Panay’s Southern Panay Front (SPF) and Central Front of the Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay (KR-Panay) was achieved through a series of intensified military operations.
The SPF, which covered parts of Antique and Iloilo, was declared dismantled on June 21, 2024, while the Central Front, spanning Capiz, Aklan, and parts of Iloilo, was also neutralized this year.
Brigadier General Michael Samson, 301IB commander, credited this accomplishment to the concerted efforts of Army units, including the 61st Infantry (Hunter) Battalion, 12th Infantry (Lick Em) Battalion, 82nd Infantry (Bantay Laya) Battalion, and other units under the brigade’s operational control.
A series of encounters in the mountainous areas of Antique, Iloilo, Capiz, and Aklan from 2023 to 2024 led to the neutralization of over 26 NPA members.
Additionally, 47 members voluntarily surrendered, contributing significantly to the dismantling of the guerrilla fronts.
“This remarkable achievement is a manifestation of the commitment and dedication of my men on the ground in responding to their call of duty as peacemakers and protectors of the people,” Samson said.
The 301IB’s success was bolstered by strong support from the Provincial Task Forces to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC) of Antique, Iloilo, Capiz, and Aklan, as well as other stakeholders. Samson emphasized the importance of the “Whole-of-Nation Approach” in achieving lasting peace.
He called on remaining NPA members to surrender and reintegrate into society.
“I urge those remaining NPA combatants to give peace a chance and give up your arms. Your government and your Army will ensure your safety and security until you are reintegrated back to your normal lives and in the loving arms of your families,” Samson said.
The 301IB’s campaign was recognized with the AFP Campaign Streamer award, underscoring its pivotal role in neutralizing communist insurgency in Panay Island./PN
