CATBALOGAN, Philippines – Two members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed, and a cache of war materials was seized during a series of clashes in the remote area of Barangay Sto. Niño, Paranas, Samar, on February 5, 2025.
The series of encounters began after civilians alerted authorities about armed men conducting extortion activities in the area. Acting on the tip, government forces launched a focused military operation to address the threat.
The first firefight broke out around 5 a.m. when troops from the 87th Infantry Battalion engaged a group believed to be part of the Yakal Platoon of the NPA’s Sub-Regional Committee Browser of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC). This initial clash occurred in the dense hinterlands of Barangay Sto. Niño.
At 8 a.m., another engagement took place when troops from the 87th Infantry Battalion encountered the same group of rebels, who were attempting to evade capture. In a brief but intense three-minute firefight, two NPA members were killed, and several high-powered firearms and military-grade equipment were seized. Among the items recovered were one M16 rifle, one .45 caliber pistol, two anti-personnel mines banned by international law, a rifle grenade, assorted ammunition, and other war materials.
In a statement, Brigadier General Lenart Lelina, commander of the 801st Infantry Brigade, expressed his condolences to the families of the slain rebels. He acknowledged the tragedy of loss, while reaffirming the military’s commitment to peace and reconciliation. “We urge those still in arms to lay down their weapons and take advantage of the government’s reintegration programs for a peaceful future,” he said.
Major General Adonis Ariel Orio, commander of the 8th Infantry Division, praised the successful operation, attributing it to the support and vigilance of the local community. “This is a strong response to the people’s desire to live free from the constant threat of terrorism. We will continue to secure every mountain in Eastern Visayas until we remove the last of the NPA members,” he stated.
Despite the ongoing operations, Major General Orio emphasized that government forces remain committed to assisting those who wish to surrender and reintegrate into society, offering a chance for a peaceful life with their families. | via Samar Chronicle
