Government troops engaged members of an alleged Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) unit attempting to re-establish presence and community links in the hinterland barangays of Las Navas, Northern Samar on June 13, 2026.
Personnel of the 43rd Infantry Battalion (43IB) were conducting focused military operations in Barangay Caputoan when they encountered around nine armed individuals believed to be members of SRC Emporium under the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC).
A brief firefight ensued, lasting approximately seven minutes, before the armed group disengaged and withdrew toward the southern direction.
No casualties were reported on the government side, while the number of casualties from the opposing group remains undetermined. Pursuit and clearing operations were immediately launched to secure the area and prevent the armed group from re-establishing contact with local communities.
Military officials said the presence of armed elements in the area reflects continuing efforts by CTG remnants to regain influence in communities where state security operations and government development programs have reportedly weakened their support base.
They also noted that information provided by civilians played a role in the conduct of the operation, indicating what they described as declining tolerance among residents toward armed group activity in their localities.
According to the military, sustained peace and development initiatives, alongside local government interventions and the return of former rebels to the fold of the law, have contributed to the reduction of insurgent influence in Northern Samar in recent months.
The 8th Infantry Division said the encounter highlights the continued challenge of preventing remnants of armed groups from re-entering areas where they previously operated, while emphasizing ongoing efforts to secure communities.
“The continued appearance of CTG remnants in remote communities is a clear indication of their attempt to recover lost influence. However, communities have already experienced the benefits of peace and development,” the Division said.
It added that security forces, together with local partners, will maintain operations aimed at protecting civilians and sustaining what it described as gains in stability and development across the province.