The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) asserted that the encounter with New People’s Army (NPA) members in Toboso, Negros Occidental on April 19 was dealt with in compliance with standard rules of engagement and observed the safety of regular citizens, it said on Thursday.

“The AFP underscores that the operation was conducted in accordance with established rules of engagement and with full regard for civilian safety,” the military said in a statement.

“In close coordination with local government units and partner agencies, affected residents were safely evacuated at the height of the encounter and have since returned to their communities. The AFP continues to work hand-in-hand with local authorities to ensure security, stability, and the swift restoration of normalcy,” it assured.

This comes amid reports that a local journalist and a student leader from the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman were among those slain in the armed encounter.

In a statement, the UP Diliman University Student Council (USC) confirmed the death of its Education and Research councilor, Alyssa Alano.

She was reportedly in Toboso for a community visit when soldiers from the 79th Infantry Battalion under the 3rd Infantry Division opened fire on residents in Barangay Salamanca.

“Noong Abril 19, walang habas na pinaulanan ng bala ng 79th Infantry Batallion ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) ang Barangay Salamanca, Toboso, Negros Occidental kung saan halos 168 na pamilya at 653 na mga indibidwal ang napilitang magbakwit sa kanilang mga tahanan,” the USC said.