CATBALOGAN CITY (September 10, 2025) — Troops from the 8th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army dealt another blow to the dwindling ranks of the New People’s Army (NPA) after overrunning a rebel hideout during an armed encounter in Barangay Magtino, Llorente, Eastern Samar on Sunday, September 8.
The firefight erupted after soldiers from the 63rd Infantry Battalion launched a targeted operation based on persistent reports from local residents about armed men harassing farmers, extorting money, and seizing portions of their harvests.
“We’ve been living in fear. They would come to our farms and take whatever they wanted,” one resident, who asked not to be named for security reasons, told authorities prior to the operation.
The information from villagers proved vital. After days of surveillance, troops closed in on the enemy position—an entrenched camp fortified with Anti-Personnel Mines (APMs), in direct violation of international humanitarian law.
In response, Army units launched a coordinated assault, using precision fire support to neutralize the threat and prevent civilian harm. The clash lasted nearly an hour, culminating in the seizure of the rebel stronghold.
Recovered from the site were two M16 rifles, a caliber .45 pistol, several magazines and rounds of ammunition, subversive documents, five backpacks, and other combat equipment.
Military officials said the successful operation disrupted the activities of the Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Sesame, a unit under the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC), and further weakened the armed group’s presence in the region.
“This is more than just a tactical win,” said Major General Adonis Ariel G. Orio, commander of the 8th Infantry Division. “It’s a clear message to those who still choose to terrorize our communities—your days are numbered, and the people are no longer afraid.”
Maj. Gen. Orio praised the bravery of civilians who came forward despite threats of retaliation, saying their cooperation was instrumental in the military’s success.
“The courage of our people to speak up and resist extortion shows a growing unity between the government and the communities in putting an end to decades of insurgent abuse,” he said.
He also renewed the military’s call for the remaining NPA members to surrender.
“There is no future in this armed struggle—only suffering and loss. The government is offering you a way out, with dignity and support for reintegration. Lay down your arms while you still can,” Orio added.
The Army vowed to maintain its presence in the area and conduct sustained operations to ensure that no remnants of the armed group can regroup or reclaim lost ground. (via Ricky Bautista)
