TACLOBAN CITY – A New People’s Army (NPA) fighter was killed in an encounter with the 46th Infantry (Peacemaker) Battalion in a remote in Gandara and San Jorge towns, Samar province, on Sunday.
The 8th Infantry Division has yet to identify the slain rebel.
Recovered in the encounter site were two M16 rifles, one M14 rifle, and combat materials.
Troops are actively pursuing fleeing communist rebels.
An emergency meeting was held between the Army and the local government unit (LGU) of Gandara following the encounter.
The meeting focused on regulating the movement of NPAs to nearby barangays and providing support to displaced residents.
The Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) has assisted 29 affected families comprising 88 individuals.
Eight families from Barangay Marcos are currently sheltered at the Barangay Minda Covered Court. Twenty-one families from Barangay have also been accommodated.
No residents from Barangay Gereganan evacuated.
Major Gen. Adonis Orio, 8th ID commander, cited the 46th IB for their achievement.
“Every successful operation brings us closer to a more stable and progressive Region 8. We remain steadfast in our duty to safeguard our communities so development can take root and flourish.”