Northern Samar clash yields high-powered firearms

CATBALOGAN CITY — Philippine Army troops engaged suspected New People’s Army (NPA) combatants in a firefight in Barangay Capotuan on Sunday morning, marking the fourth clash in Las Navas town this October as government forces counter rebel efforts to regain influence in the area.

The Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division reported that troops were conducting joint focused military operations when they encountered armed men believed to be remnants of the NPA’s Sub-Regional Committee Emporium.

After a brief exchange of fire, the armed group withdrew toward a mountainous area, leaving behind a squad automatic rifle, an improvised explosive device, and several rounds of ammunition.

Las Navas Mayor John Philbert Tan assured residents that the municipal government is working closely with military and police units to maintain security.

Brig. Gen. Carmelito Pangatungan, commander of the 803rd Infantry Brigade, said the operation aimed to protect local communities from insurgent harassment, adding that focused operations will continue until remaining combatants are captured or surrender.

The clash comes as a former NPA squad leader voluntarily surrendered to local officials and military personnel in neighboring Samar province.

The 8th Infantry Division reported Monday that an insurgent identified as alias “Atod,” a vice squad leader under Sub-Regional Committee Browser, surrendered to the local government of San Jose de Buan and the 46th Infantry Battalion on 14 October.

Atod turned over an M16 rifle and a .45-caliber pistol, citing physical exhaustion, hunger, fear for his safety, internal leadership disputes, and a desire to reunite with his family as key reasons for leaving the armed movement.

Following his surrender, the municipal government of San Jose de Buan and the 46th Infantry Battalion provided immediate food and grocery assistance to Atod and his family. Local officials are facilitating documentation to enroll him in government reintegration programs.

“In surrendering, I saw that soldiers are not to be feared,” Atod said. “The outcome was good for me and my family, and the municipality helped as well.”

San Jose de Buan Mayor Christal Jean Elizalde welcomed the former combatant’s decision to return to civilian life, while Lt. Col. Marvin Inocencio, commander of the 46th Infantry Battalion, urged remaining insurgents to avail themselves of government assistance programs and peaceful reintegration options.