The Leonardo Panaligan Command of the New People's Army has claimed responsibility for the ambush-slay of a barangay captain and six others Friday last week, in Sitio Manluminsag, Barangay Mandapaton, La Libertad, Oriental Negros.

In a statement signed by Ka JB Regalado yesterday, the Bagong Hukbong Bayan of the LPC, said that Brgy. Captain Lydio Baylon had been a target of their liquidation for crimes he committed against the cause of the underground movement. The group claimed that Baylon, being a leader of armed goons, was a target of the tactical offensive of the BHB.

The BHB also alleged that Baylon was responsible for killing innocent civilians while he was a member of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit, torture of suspected NPA members, arson, stealing of animals and an active barangay intelligence network member.

As village chief of Barangay Aya, Baylon used his authority in forcing residents to follow his order, the group further said. The statement also said that, during the past elections, the slain barangay captain had used the policy of "No vote, Ibot." Ka JB Regalado further said that Baylon's activity started in the early 1980s.

Regalado also said that during the ambush, the BHB operatives were able to recover one M-16 rifle with scope, one shotgun, a.45 caliber pistol with night vision and assorted ammunition.

He said that Baylon's group had figured in an encounter with the NPA on December 29, 2006.

PNP provincial director Sr.Supt. Melvin Ramon Buenafe said that all the evidences are being considered, including the testimonies of witnesses.

He said the PNP is validating the veracity of the statement because anybody can make such document. But if it is proved that the claim is true, the PNP will file multiple murder and frustrated murder charges against Regalado and his group.

The PNP will also leave no stone unturned to determine the real perpetrators. Buenafe, however, refused to name names until all sides have been considered.*JG

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