TACLOBAN CITY– Soldiers under the 8th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army clashed with members of the New People’s Army(NPA) in Barangay Caraye, Javier, Leyte, early morning on October 15, 2025.
According to the Army, the encounter occurred as troops were conducting focused military operations against remnants of the dismantled Island Committee LEVOX of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC). The firefight lasted several minutes, resulting in the recovery of one Garand rifle, several rounds of ammunition, and personal belongings left behind by the fleeing rebels.
Major General Adonis Ariel Orio, commander of the 8th Infantry Division, reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to eradicating insurgency in the region.
“We stand firm in our mission to put an end to the remaining threats of the CTG. Our operations will continue hand in hand with local governments and the people of Eastern Visayas until peace, stability, and genuine progress are fully achieved,” said Maj. Gen. Orio in a statement.
Colonel Rico Amaro, acting commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade, echoed the same commitment, emphasizing the Army’s determination to pursue the remaining insurgents.
“We will not stop our decisive operations until every remaining communist terrorist group member is captured or has surrendered. Our troops will continue to pursue them relentlessly to ensure that communities can live free from fear and violence,” he said in a separate statement.
Lieutenant Colonel Esmeraldo Sumalinog, commanding officer of the 14th Infantry Battalion, said the operation was launched to protect residents from potential CTG harassment and threats.
“We are thankful to the residents who continue to trust and cooperate with us. Peace is only possible when the community and the Army work hand in hand,” Lt. Col. Sumalinog stated.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
