The Manila Times
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) Forensic Group has confirmed through DNA testing the identity of a decomposing cadaver recovered in the hinterlands of Cabalagnan, Hinabangan last March as a high-ranking leader of the New People's Army (NPA). On March 14, troops from the 63rd Infantry Battalion discovered the remains following an armed encounter between Barangays Cabalagnan and Tabay while pursuing two fleeing members of the Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Sesame. Former NPA members initially identified the body through personal belongings as Lupito Bucatcat, also known as “Hunyo,” believed to be the secretary of SRC Sesame under the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC). The 63rd Infantry “Innovator” Battalion, under the 8th Infantry Division, said the body was already in an advanced state of decomposition. However, DNA testing yielded a 99.9 percent kinship and paternity match from collected samples, confirming the identity as Bucatcat. Alias “Hunyo” was considered a key figure in the dwindling insurgent structure in the province and had spent years involved in armed struggle, reportedly playing a role in directing activities and maintaining influence in affected communities. Lt. Col. Ricky James L. Rosalejos, commanding officer of the 63rd Infantry Battalion, said Bucatcat was ultimately abandoned by the organization he served. “Instead of being rescued, cared for, or even given dignity in death, Lupito Bucatcat was left behind, neglected, and ignored by the same group he fought for,” Rosalejos said. “His decomposing body, recovered alone in the hinterlands, reflects the harsh reality behind the group’s claims of brotherhood and loyalty,” he added.
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