The Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusan Mamamalakaya sa Pilipinas -Negros claimed that members of the Philippine Army are sowing fear among their members in northern Negros by visiting the farmers' houses and listing down their names.

Pablito Plaza, PAMALAKAYA spokesperson said their members in Barangay Malasibog, Toboso reported that Army men were stationed near the houses of KMP members, making them feel harassed.

He added that some farmers were also told by the Army not to join the KMP or other peasant groups.

In a fact-finding effort conducted early this month, Plaza said some of their members reported that they were being accused by the soldiers of being members of the New People's Army. He added that their groups have scheduled a dialog with local officials of Toboso and Escalante.

Plaza added that this form of harassment is a manifestation of the implementation of the Human Security Act.

Earlier, government troopers intensified efforts to pre-empt reported tactical offensives to be launched by rebels in Negros island. On July 15, patrolling Army's Scout Rangers clashed with about 20 NPA rebels in Hacienda Caridad, Brgy. E. Lopez, Silay City.

While the military reported no injury or casualty on their side, Task Force North commandeer Col. Felicisimo Budiongan said traces of bloodstains were seen along the rebels' withdrawal route.*NAB

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