South Cotabato’s Lake Holon closed to tourists after clash, security scare
GENERAL SANTOS CITY—The scenic Lake Holon in Tboli, South Cotabato has been temporarily closed to visitors due to security concerns, officials said.
Tboli Mayor Keo Dayle Tuan issued Executive Order No. 27 on April 10, placing the popular trekking destination off-limits following a gun battle between government troops and alleged New People’s Army members on April 9 in Sitio Tbul, Barangay Laconon.
“To ensure the safety and security of its constituents, particularly tourists and visitors, there is a need to temporarily close Lake Holon and postpone all tourism activities in the area,” Tuan said in the order.
The closure was recommended by the Tboli Municipal Police Station, the mayor added.
Municipal tourism officer Argie Amad said the order remains in effect and has not yet been lifted.
“Nobody is allowed entry to Lake Holon until the mayor issues an order reopening it to the public,” he said.
Slain rebels
On April 9, two alleged rebels were killed in an encounter with troops from the 603rd Infantry Brigade, according to Brig. Gen. Michael Santos. The fatalities were identified as Anthony Narvasa, alias “Magaw,” and Roda Kian, alias “Mutya” or “Roxanne.”
Soldiers also recovered several firearms during clearing operations, including M16 and R4 rifles.
Later that night, three local government workers were wounded after soldiers fired at a utility vehicle at a checkpoint, an incident the 6th Infantry Division attributed to miscommunication amid heightened alert status following the clash.
