Four suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed in an armed encounter with government troops in Northern Samar, the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division reported on Wednesday.
The firefight occurred on Tuesday, June 3, in Barangay Nagoocan, Catubig, following reports of armed men allegedly involved in extortion activities in the area.
Following the clash, government forces recovered three firearms from the scene.
The army said efforts are underway to identify the slain individuals, and coordination is ongoing with local authorities to notify their families.
In a separate operation on June 2, troops also discovered a cache of firearms and explosives in Barangay Roxas, Catubig.
According to the Philippine Army, the discovery was made possible through information provided by former rebels who have surrendered and are now enrolled in the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
Among the items recovered were two M14 rifles, an M16 rifle, an M653 rifle, three improvised hand grenades, ammunition magazines, a bandolier, a pistol holster, and various medical supplies.
Major General Adonis Ariel Orio, commander of the 8th Infantry Division (8ID), praised 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 will continue to serve as our mission enabler — offering not just holistic integration and livelihood support, but a renewed purpose.”
