Army reports 2 separate encounters with insurgents in Samar, 1 rebel killed

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 6): Army reports 2 separate encounters with insurgents in Samar, 1 rebel killed

Government troops under the 8th Infantry Division (8ID) of the Philippine Army (PA) figured in two separate encounters against members of the New People’s Army (NPA) this week as its continues with its peace and security operations in Samar provinces.

Information from the division’s public affairs office (DPAO) said the first encounter happened Tuesday at the vicinity of Poponton village in Las Navas, Northern Samar between the 63rd Infantry Battalion and undetermined number of rebels.

One NPA rebel was killed and two M16 rifles were recovered during the chance encounter, according to DPAO chief, Capt. Amado Gutierrez.

On the other hand, the 43rd Infantry Battalion engaged around 10 rebels at Brgy. Ligaya, Matuguinao, Samar on Wednesday.

There were no casualties or injuries reported during the 15-minute exchange of fire.

8ID commanding general, M/Gen. Gerardo T. Layug assured that their troops will continue to perform its primary mandate “to protect the people.”

“This is the constitutional mandate of the AFP so we cannot afford to waste time,” he said.

Northern Samar and Samar are the two remaining provinces of Eastern Visayas that are yet to be declared as manageable conflict and development ready.

“Our mission and goal is to make the Island of Samar a manageable conflict and development-ready area just like Biliran, Bohol, Leyte and Southern Leyte. We are determined to do this to serve the people of Samar so we can attain a just and lasting peace,” Layug said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=531765