Two soldiers were killed while a civilian was wounded during a firefight between government troops and suspected Communist-NPA-Terrorists (CNTs) in Barangay Babaklayon, San Jose de Buan, Samar, the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division reported Thursday.

According to the 8ID, the encounter broke out on 3 December after soldiers responded to reports from residents about the presence of armed men believed to be CNTs who had allegedly forced their way into private properties and used these as hideouts, actions the military said were clear violations of International Humanitarian Law (IHL).

Troops deployed to verify the information were reportedly met with gunfire, triggering a clash in the vicinity of the community. 

The Army said its personnel maneuvered to protect civilians trapped near the encounter site when the CNTs “treacherously targeted” them, resulting in the deaths of two soldiers. 

Their identities are being withheld pending notification of their families.

A civilian was also injured amid the exchange of fire, highlighting what the Army described as the CNTs’ “disregard for civilian safety.”

In a statement, the Stormtroopers Division expressed sorrow over the loss of its personnel and condemned the insurgents’ alleged continued violations of IHL. 

The division assured that the families of the fallen soldiers will receive assistance and full military honors.

Pursuit operations against the remaining members of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) are ongoing.

The Army commended residents who alerted authorities, noting that their timely reports helped prevent more serious harm to the community.

The 8ID reaffirmed its commitment to protect civilians and conduct operations “with utmost professionalism, legitimacy, and respect for human rights,” adding that the sacrifices of the fallen soldiers will be remembered and honored by the people of Eastern Visayas.