By Sarwell Meniano
TACLOBAN CITY – The Philippine Army discovered the decomposing body of an alleged leader of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) days after an encounter with remnants of a rebel unit in Hinabangan, Samar.
The Army said in a statement Monday that soldiers found the body during a pursuit operation on March 14 against fleeing members of the Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Sesame operating in the area.
The remains were located between Barangays Cabalagnan and Tabay in Hinabangan town by government troops scouring the area for armed rebels.
Based on initial identification by former rebels, the body was believed to be that of Lupito Bucatcat, also known as “Hinio,” who allegedly served as secretary of the SRC Sesame under the NPA’s Eastern Visayas Party Committee.
Authorities said Bucatcat had a pending warrant of arrest for multiple murder issued by Branch 30 of the Regional Trial Court in Basey, Samar.
The remains were turned over to the Hinabangan municipal police station for proper documentation and processing.
Government troops believe that the NPA leader was killed in a clash with soldiers in the mountains of Barangay Cabalagnan on Feb. 25, 2026. A rebel leader died during the clash.
Meanwhile, the 8th Infantry Division commended the troops of the 63IB for their efforts during the military operation.
“The 8th Infantry Division calls on the remaining members of the SRC Sesame to lay down their weapons, abandon the armed struggle, and avail themselves of the government’s reintegration programs,” the division said in a statement on Monday.
The military also reiterated its commitment to protect communities and urged the public to continue supporting peace and security efforts by reporting suspicious activities in their respective areas. (PNA)
