Philippine Army Identifies NPA Casualties
TACLOBAN CITY – The Philippine Army has identified three of the five communist New People’s Army (NPA) members who were killed in recent clashes with government troops in Catubig, Northern Samar. The identification of the fallen rebels was made public following the recovery of their remains and the cooperation of local officials.
The 8th Infantry Division announced on Monday that the remains of the deceased NPA members were turned over to their families through close coordination with local government units. This successful operation highlights the ongoing efforts to address insurgency in the region.
Names of Identified NPA Casualties
The three NPA casualties were named as Noel Lebico Sr. from Barangay Roxas in Catubig, Arnel Aquino of Barangay Osmeña in Palapag, and Nonoy Norcio from Barangay Luneta in Gamay, all municipalities in Northern Samar. Their identities were confirmed by In-In, a former vice squad leader of the NPA Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee, who surrendered to government forces after a series of clashes between June 2 and 5 in the upland areas of Catubig.
Recovered Weapons and Military Success
From the encounter sites, government troops seized an arsenal that included two M14 rifles, two M16 rifles, an M653 rifle, an Ultimax squad automatic weapon, a submachine gun, three improvised hand grenades, medical supplies, and other materials. These recoveries further demonstrate the extent of the armed group’s operations in the area.
Major General Adonis Ariel Orio, commander of the 8th Infantry Division, praised the strong cooperation between local residents and military forces. He noted that this collaboration was crucial in neutralizing NPA members involved in extortion and other illegal activities.
“The cooperation of the citizens clearly showed the deepening trust between the military and the communities we serve,” Orio said. He also encouraged remaining NPA members to take advantage of the government’s National Amnesty Program for a peaceful return to society.
Insurgency in Eastern Visayas
Northern Samar remains known as the last stronghold of insurgency in the Eastern Visayas region. The recent operations signal the government’s continued commitment to restoring peace and security in the area. Local leaders emphasized the importance of community support in overcoming insurgency challenges.
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