TACLOBAN CITY — At least two members of the communist New People’s Army were killed in a clash with troops from the 20th Infantry (We Lead) Battalion in the hinterlands of Barangay Bulao, Las Navas, Northern Samar at around 6:50 a.m. on 19 December 2025.

Based on an initial report from the 20th Infantry Battalion, the clash occurred while troops were conducting an operation in response to reports from residents about the presence of armed men threatening local farmers and extorting supplies in the barangay.

The Philippine Army said it is still verifying the identities of the two NPA casualties, who are believed to be members of the Sub-Regional Committee ARCTIC under the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee.

Government troops also seized three M16 rifles from the encounter site.

No casualties were reported on the side of government forces.