2 NPA members killed; high-powered firearms seized in N. Samar clash

TACLOBAN CITY — Two members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed while three high-powered firearms were seized following an armed encounter with government troops in the hinterlands of Barangay Bulao, Las Navas, Northern Samar on Friday, December 19, according to the 8th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army.

In a statement, the 8th ID, based in Catbalogan City, Samar, said troops, belonging to the 20th Infantry Brigade, encountered the NPA members after responding to reports from farmers about the presence of armed men in the area.

The military said the NPA members had allegedly been coercing and extorting farmers, forcing them to surrender portions of their harvest and demanding cash from residents, prompting civilians to seek the help of authorities.

The clash resulted in the death of two NPA members and the seizure of three firearms, which the military described as high-powered weapons. No casualties on the government side were reported.

The 8th ID said government forces remain on heightened alert in the area to prevent possible regrouping by the NPA and to ensure the safety of local communities, particularly farmers in remote villages.

Northern Samar has been identified by the military as one of the remaining areas in Eastern Visayas where NPA remnants continue to operate, often targeting rural communities through intimidation and extortion, which the army says has affected local livelihoods and security. /das