CATBALOGAN CITY, Philippines — Two members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed in separate clashes with government forces in Las Navas, Northern Samar, on March 28, 2025. The incidents occurred as the military continued its focused operations against the armed group in the region.
In a press statement, Major Jefferson Mariano, chief of the 8th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) said the first encounter took place on March 23, when troops from the 19th Infantry Battalion clashed with around 15 NPA members from the Sub-Regional Guerrilla Unit (SRGU) of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee in the mountainous area of Barangay Cuenco. The firefight resulted in the death of one rebel, identified as Domeng Tulin, alias “Pawa.” Military forces recovered several items, including four backpacks, two cellphones, and other personal belongings.
On March 28, the 20th Infantry Battalion engaged 10 members of the NPA’s Regional Guerrilla Unit (RGU) in Barangay San Francisco, Las Navas. After a brief seven-minute firefight, the rebels retreated, leaving behind the body of one of their fallen comrades. Among the recovered items were an M16 rifle, three long magazines, a backpack, and a bandolier.
The identity of the second deceased NPA fighter is still being verified, and authorities are in the process of notifying the family of the deceased.
Lt. Col. Ricky James Rosalejos, commander of the 19th Infantry Battalion, extended his condolences to the families of those killed and praised the troops for their swift actions. He reiterated the Army’s commitment to maintaining peace and security in Northern Samar.
“This operation is a direct response to the people’s grievances against the extortion and intimidation tactics of the NPA. We assure the public that the 19IB will continue its mission to bring lasting peace to the province. We also urge the remaining NPA members to choose peace and return to their families,” Lt. Col. Rosalejos said.
Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel G. Orio, commander of the 8th Infantry Division, condemned the ongoing violence despite efforts to offer NPA members a peaceful alternative. “We are committed to protecting all Filipinos and offering opportunities for former rebels to reintegrate peacefully into society. But if they refuse to abandon their armed struggle, tragedies like these will continue,” Maj. Gen. Orio said.
He also encouraged remaining NPA members to take advantage of the government’s National Amnesty Program, which offers a chance for a peaceful life outside of the armed conflict. | via The Samar Chronicle
