By Sarwell Meniano
TACLOBAN CITY – The Philippine Army has intensified its hunt against fleeing rebels in Northern Samar after Monday’s brief armed encounter with insurgents in the mountain of Gamay, Northern Samar.
The Army’s 8th Infantry Division (8ID) has directed its units to continue pursuit operations to stop the armed group from engaging in further extortion and other illegal activities that could threaten communities in the province.
“The 8ID reaffirmed its commitment to sustain focused military operations while working closely with local government units, stakeholders, and communities to maintain peace and security in Eastern Visayas,” the Army said in a statement Tuesday.
The 8ID issued a statement after a firefight with 10 members of the communist New People’s Army in Barangay Lonoy, Gamay town on Monday. The encounter reportedly lasted about 5 minutes before the armed group retreated.
According to the military, the operation was launched after local farmers reported alleged extortion by suspected rebel members in nearby communities. Acting on this information, troops conducted verification and security operations to safeguard residents and address the reported threats.
After the encounter, government troops recovered a .45 caliber pistol, a short magazine for an M16 rifle, and several personal belongings believed to have been abandoned by the fleeing rebels.
The 8ID also reiterated their call for remaining NPA members to surrender and take advantage of the government’s reintegration and livelihood programs instead of continuing armed struggle. (PNA)
