NPA member killed in an operation in Northern Samar

From GMA News (Feb 16): NPA member killed in an operation in Northern Samar

A suspected member of the New People's Army was killed in a five-hour firefight with the military in Northern Samar on February 14.

The suspect was identified as Bernadette Lutao alias “Kakan," wife of alleged NPA leader Salvador Nordan alias “Badok.”

A press release from Philippine Army showed troops of 43rd Infantry Battalion, 8th Infantry Division, led by 1Lt. Edsel Ryan Celebre, engaged the NPA rebels while conducting combat operations against lawless elements in Sitio Cabaywa, Brgy. Santander, Bobon, Northern Samar.

Authorities seized one improvised explosive device (IED) and three cellular phones.

Maj. General Raul Farnacio, head of 8th ID, said the accomplishment was a result of the collective effort of the local government unit and agencies, 8ID, and civilian constituents to attain just and lasting peace in Northern Samar.

He said since the lifting of the ceasefire by President Rodrigo Duterte, the 8ID troops have been conducting security operations in the region as part of their mandate.

“Rest assured that your Army in Eastern Visayas are tirelessly committed to serve and secure the people within the bounds of respect of Human Rights, International Humanitarian Law, and Rule of Law,“ said Farnacio.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Feb. 7 said government forces are waging an all-out war against the NPA.

“Yes, it is an all-out war kasi they are considered by the President already as terrorists. We also consider them as terrorists,” Lorenzana said at a press briefing in Malacañang.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/599814/news/regions/npa-member-killed-in-an-operation-in-northern-samar