A Philippine Army (PA) personnel was killed during an armed encounter with suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in San Jorge, Samar on Tuesday, May 14.

A report released by the military on Thursday, May 16, identified the fallen trooper as Corporal Reycon Remedio, a member of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Battalion (3IB), and a native of Carigara, Leyte.

The armed encounter ensued between the 3IB and suspected remnants of the NPA’s Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Browser, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) in Barangay Gayondato when residents reported the presence of armed rebels in the hinterlands of their community, prompting military action.

Originally, the unit where Remedio belonged was deployed in the area not for combat operation but to conduct community support program. However, they were ordered to respond to the report of the locals.

“Responding to the information, the troops moved to drive away the armed group. However, as they approached the area, they were fired upon by the CTG [communist terrorist group] resulting in the encounter,” Captain Jefferson Mariano, 8ID spokesperson, said. 

Remedio was fatally hit on the left side of his head during the 45-minute firefight. Another soldier was also injured and brought to the hospital but his identity was withheld by the military.

Lieutenant Colonel Fritz Montemor, commanding officer of the 3IB, condemned the continued violence perpetrated by the rebel group in Samar.

"Our troops were deployed to the community to facilitate the delivery of basic services to improve socio-economic development in the area. The people want to live in peace, free from harassment and intimidation. Let us give peace a chance," he said.

Meanwhile, Major General Camilo Z. Ligayo, commander of the 8ID, expressed sympathy to the family and friends of Remedio.

"It is unfortunate that another life was lost in the pursuit of peace. He offered his young life protecting the residents of Gayondato to attain lasting peace in Eastern Visayas. This will not deter our resolve to continue our sworn duty to ensure the safety and security of our communities. There will be no let-up in our operations,” he said.

“I further call on the remaining rebels to lay down their arms, avail themselves of the government’s peace program, and reunite with their families to live a peaceful life," he added.