ILOILO City – Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) director, Police Colonel Noel Aliño, warned police chiefs to be wary of possible attacks by the New People’s Army (NPA).
He issued the warning after a recent encounter between the NPA and the Philippine Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion on Saturday, Nov. 26, in Barangay Tigbanaba, Igbaras, Iloilo.
Domingo Tagapolan Costas, 47, of Barangay Dalije, Miag-ao, Iloilo, died in the clash. He was a member of NPA Team 1, Squad 1 of Suyak Platoon, Southern Front Kometing Rehiyon Panay, led by Jun Capio, authorities said.
Aliño said his men should not be complacent, especially in towns that are considered “high risk”.
“Be alert all the time. Know the persons going in and out of the police station and always carry short and long firearms. Dapat naka-duty sa station ang lahat na available men kasi ang ating kalaban ay anjan lang naghihintay ng opportunity,” Aliño said.
Among the towns considered “high risk” are Alimodian, Balasan, Bingawan, Calinog, Guimbal, Janiuay, Igbaras, Lambunao, Lemery, Leon, Maasin, Miag-ao, San Joaquin, San Rafael, and Tubungan.
On June 18, 2017 rebels attacked the Maasin police station and disarmed and handcuffed nine police officers on duty.
The rebels carted away firearms, radio equipment, laptop computers, cash, and a patrol vehicle./PN
