CATBALOGAN CITY – The 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division, Philippine Army, seized five more firearms following an encounter with members of the Communist New People’s Army (NPA) during a focused military operation in the hinterlands of Barangay Can-aponte, San Jose de Buan, Samar, on June 9, 2025.
Troops from the 87th Infantry “Hinirang” Battalion recovered four M16 rifles, one .45-caliber pistol, a mobile phone, medical supplies, and various personal items at the encounter site.
The firefight was triggered by reports from concerned residents about the presence of armed individuals passing through a local farm. This led to a 30-minute clash between government troops and an estimated 30 members of the Yakal Platoon, Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Browser, under the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC).
Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel G. Orio, commander of the 8ID, described the seizure as another step forward in their sustained efforts to dismantle armed groups operating in Samar.
“We will continue to intensify our efforts and pursue peace throughout Eastern Visayas. The recovery of these firearms since May 2025 reflects our progress in reducing the capacity of armed groups to disrupt communities and shows that violence has no place in Samar,” Maj. Gen. Orio said.
Since the beginning of June, the 8ID has conducted intensified operations that have led to the recovery of more than 12 high-powered firearms and the neutralization of eight armed group members, including the surrender of alias “In-In,” a key figure in the Sub-Regional Guerrilla Unit, Sub-Regional Committee Arctic, EVRPC.
“The 8th Infantry Division remains focused on sustaining this momentum. Alongside local government efforts and community cooperation, we are committed to helping bring lasting peace and development to the region,” Orio added.
(via Ricky Bautista)
