Government troops clashed with suspected communist insurgents in the hinterlands of Motiong, Samar, leaving two fighters dead and firearms recovered after a brief firefight, the military said.
The encounter occurred on April 24, 2026 in Barangay Caulayanan, where soldiers from the 46th Infantry Battalion under the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division engaged remnants of the Yakal Platoon of the Sub-Regional Committee Browser, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee.
The 8th Infantry Division said the firefight lasted about seven minutes before the armed group withdrew, leaving behind two members and weapons at the scene. Recovered were an M14 rifle and a .45-caliber pistol.
Military officials said the slain individuals have yet to be identified, noting that their companions fled the area during the encounter.
The division described the incident as another setback for insurgent forces in Eastern Visayas, adding that sustained military operations have weakened their capabilities in Samar.
Officials said the pattern of short, sporadic clashes reflects the group’s reduced strength and mobility, forcing members into evasive movements in remote areas.
The military also cited the abandonment of casualties as indicative of internal practices within the group, while reiterating its commitment to continued operations in the province.
Authorities again urged remaining members to surrender and avail themselves of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which provides financial and livelihood assistance to former rebels.
“We urge those still in the movement to lay down their arms and return to their families. The government remains ready to help them reintegrate into society,” the 8th Infantry Division said.
Follow-up operations are ongoing as troops pursue retreating members and secure nearby communities to prevent further armed incidents.