Government troops recovered a rifle and other war materials after a brief encounter with members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in the hinterlands of Las Navas, Northern Samar on June 4, 2026.
The 20th Infantry “We Lead” Battalion said its troops were conducting focused military operations in Barangay Catotoogan when they encountered around 10 armed CTG members believed to be part of Squad 2, Sub-Regional Committee ARCTIC of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee.
The firefight lasted about 10 minutes before the rebels withdrew toward the west.
After clearing the encounter site, troops recovered one M16 rifle, magazines, a bandoleer, ponchos, backpacks, and other personal belongings left behind by the fleeing rebels.
Two soldiers sustained gunshot wounds during the clash. They were immediately given first aid by fellow troops before being evacuated for further medical treatment. Both are now in stable condition.
The military said the operation was made possible through information provided by concerned residents, whose cooperation helped troops locate the armed group.
Officials said the incident showed the growing willingness of communities to reject the influence of armed groups and support government peace and security efforts in Northern Samar.
The Army said the recovery of war materials also reflected the continuing pressure on remaining CTG forces in the province, where authorities have been working to prevent rebels from rebuilding influence in communities that have moved toward peace and development.
The 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division commended the troops involved in the operation, particularly the two wounded soldiers.
“The bravery and dedication shown by our soldiers reflect their unwavering commitment to protect the people and secure our communities from armed threats,” the division said.
“While two of our personnel were wounded in action, their sacrifice underscores the risks our troops willingly face to ensure that residents can live peacefully, pursue their livelihood, and provide a better future for their families without fear and intimidation,” it added.
The division said decades of armed struggle had caused hardship in Samar communities by disrupting livelihoods, delaying development, and exposing civilians to violence and insecurity.
It also credited the cooperation of residents, local government units, and security forces for helping sustain peace and development gains in Northern Samar and other parts of Eastern Visayas.
The 8th Infantry Division renewed its call for remaining CTG members to abandon armed struggle and return to their families, saying reintegration, livelihood, and social support programs remain available for those who choose to surrender.
The division also thanked local communities for their continued vigilance and rejection of insurgent influence, saying public cooperation remains crucial in weakening rebel operations and protecting communities from armed threats.