By Sarwell Meniano
TACLOBAN CITY – Four members of the New People’s Army were killed while two others surrendered during a series of clashes with government troops in an upland area of Catubig, Northern Samar on Tuesday.
The six neutralized armed rebels are among the approximately 30 NPA members from the regional guerrilla unit and sub-regional committee Arctic under the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee who clashed with soldiers.
The Army’s 8th Infantry Division reported on Wednesday that clashes erupted following reports from residents about the presence of armed men allegedly conducting extortion activities in the area.
At least three firearms were seized during the series of clashes in Nagoocan village in Catubig town.
Authorities are working to identify the slain rebels and are coordinating with local officials to notify their families.
A day before the firefight, troops from the 20th Infantry Battalion discovered a cache of firearms and explosives in Roxas village, also in Catubig town, upon acting on the information given by a former NPA vice squad leader who voluntarily surrendered through the localized peace engagement.
Recovered are two M14 rifles, an M16 rifle, an M653 rifle, three improvised hand grenades, an empty M14 magazine, a bandolier, a pistol holster, and assorted medical paraphernalia and other items.
Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel G. Orio, commander of the 8th Infantry Division, commended the joint efforts of the government and its partners in addressing the root causes of insurgency and promoting peace in the region.
“When individuals who once fought against us now stand with us, it changes the narrative about our organization and our mission,” Orio said. “E-CLIP (Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program) will continue to serve as our mission enabler — offering not just holistic integration and livelihood support, but a renewed purpose.”
He assured residents of Northern Samar of the military’s unwavering commitment to peace and security and encouraged active NPA members to avail themselves of and take advantage of the National Amnesty Program offered by the government.
Northern Samar province is considered the last bastion of insurgency in Eastern Visayas. (PNA)
