Vince Francis Dingding, a University of the Philippines Cebu graduate and former student leader, died during clashes between rebels and government troops in Negros Occidental on May 16, 2026. The Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army confirmed his death along with four other members.
Vince Francis Dingding, also known as Ka Poy or Moymoy, served as secretary of the Southwest Negros Guerrilla Front. He was among five individuals killed in a series of encounters with the 15th Infantry Battalion under the 302nd Infantry Brigade in Barangay Abaca, Cauayan.
The 302nd Infantry Brigade said local residents provided information that led to the clashes in the hinterlands of Barangays Abaca and Poblacion. Ka Maoche Legislador, spokesperson of the Apolinario Gatmaitan Command, stated that the deaths occurred around 5 p.m. on May 16.
Dingding had left a corporate technology job to join the rebel group in 2018. During his time at UP Cebu he held student council positions and campaigned for accessible education and against measures such as the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement.
Friends and alumni groups expressed sorrow. Mary Rose Ampoon recalled his ability to ease tense situations and inspire others. The Philippine Science High School-Central Visayas Campus alumni association called for compassion and reflection on social inequality.
