CATBALOGAN CITY — A notorious leader of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) wanted for a string of criminal cases was killed in a recent military encounter in Barangay Cawayan, according to authorities.

The rebel leader — identified as Artemio Solayao alias Budil, believed to be the leader of Squad 2, Yakal Platoon, SRC Browser of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee — was killed in a 15-minute clash with troops from the 46th Infantry Battalion.

Solayao’s body was found after his comrades retreated. Government troops recovered a .45-caliber pistol and subversive documents.

According to the 8th Infantry Division, Solayao had multiple outstanding warrants of arrest for atrocities against government forces, including the ambush of the 14th Infantry Battalion in Maypadandan, Catbalogan City, in 2014.

Brigadier General Lenart R. Lelina, the brigade commander of the 801st Infantry Brigade, called on the remaining NPA members to abandon the violent path.

“This Christmas season, we are hoping that you will choose to lay down your arms and return to the folds of the law. It is not yet too late, be with your family, the government will help you,” Lelina said.

Meanwhile, Major General Adonis Ariel G. Orio, commander of the 8th Infantry Division, lauded the successful operation as a significant step in the relentless fight against insurgency in Eastern Visayas.

“This incident could have been avoided if they had surrendered and heeded the government’s call for peace,” Orio said.

“This only shows our determination to put an end to terrorism and insurgency in the Samar provinces. The Philippine Army will remain steadfast in its mission to protect the people and eliminate threats to peace,” he added.