CATBAOGAN, Philippines – A leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in a 15-minute firefight with government troops from the 46th Infantry Battalion, 8th Infantry Division, in Barangay Cawayan, Catbalogan City, Samar, on December 13, 2024.
The clash occurred during a military operation targeting NPA forces, who retreated northwest after the encounter, leaving behind their fallen leader. Government troops recovered a .45 caliber pistol and subversive documents from the site.
The slain NPA leader was identified as Artemio Solayao, alias Budil, the head of Squad 2, Yakal Platoon, SRC Browser of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC). Solayao was reportedly wanted for various crimes, including his involvement in the 2014 ambush of the 14th Infantry Battalion in Maypadandan, Catbalogan City.
Brigadier General Lenart R. Lelina, Brigade Commander of the 801st Infantry Brigade, urged remaining NPA members to abandon violence and return to the fold of the law.
“This Christmas season, we hope you will choose to lay down your arms and return to your families. It is not too late; the government is here to help you,” Brig. Gen. Lelina said.
Meanwhile, Major General Adonis Ariel G. Orio, Commander of the 8th Infantry Division, hailed the operation as a significant blow to insurgency in Eastern Visayas.
“This incident could have been avoided if the NPA had chosen peace and surrendered. It underscores our commitment to end terrorism and insurgency in the Samar provinces,” Maj. Gen. Orio remarked. “The Philippine Army will continue to protect the people and eliminate threats to peace.”
Maj. Gen. Orio also encouraged active NPA members to take advantage of the government’s National Amnesty Program. He invited them to coordinate with their families or local leaders to facilitate their safe surrender and formal application for amnesty. | via Samar Chronicle
