Ormoc City — A caliber .45 pistol recovered by government troops in Jaro, Leyte has been confirmed as the service firearm of a soldier tortured and slain by communist rebels in 2023, strengthening the military’s claim that the three New People’s Army members killed in a recent clash were involved in past atrocities.
The pistol was retrieved on November 18 from the encounter site in Barangay Villa Paz, bringing to three the total number of firearms seized following the November 17 firefight between the 8th Infantry Division and remnants of the Island Committee (IC) Levox.
Initial verification showed that one of the earlier recovered firearms belonged to the late Pfc. Aries Ampoan, who was murdered by the communist armed group on April 2, 2023 during an encounter in Abuyog, Leyte. The discovery is seen as key evidence directly linking the neutralized rebels to the incident, according to the 8ID.
The clash in Jaro resulted in the death of three rebels who were identified as Fidel Lagado alias “Ivan,” Rogelio Berino alias “Jun,” and Maricel Anora alias “Gani,” and the confiscation of firearms and other war materiel.
In compliance with International Humanitarian Law, the division immediately facilitated the turnover of the remains to their families and coordinated with the local government of Jaro to ensure dignified burials.
Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio, 8ID commander, emphasized that the operation was not only a step toward community security but also toward justice.
“Our commitment goes beyond securing communities; it extends to upholding IHL and pursuing justice for our fallen soldiers. This encounter brings undeniable clarity to the heinous nature of the enemy we face and provides crucial accountability for their crimes,” Orio said.
(ELVIE ROMAN ROA)
