Samar: The Philippine Army (PA) has vowed relentless operations against New People's Army (NPA) "remnants" following Wednesday's clash in Samar that resulted in the deaths of two soldiers. In a statement Wednesday night, PA chief Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete called on the remaining NPA members to "abandon armed struggle and pursue peaceful reintegration."

According to Philippines News Agency, Nafarrete issued the statement following the clash between the 46th Infantry Battalion and NPA rebels in San Jose de Buan, Samar on the wee hours of Wednesday where two soldiers were killed. Initial information revealed that the two fatalities are both technical sergeants, but the PA has yet to officially release their names.

The clash was triggered by reports of NPA presence in upland Barangay Babaclayon where the insurgents forcibly occupied private properties and used them as hideouts. "Our fallen soldiers served with courage and dedication, and their sacrifice will not be forgotten," Nafarrete said of the two fatalities. "Security operations will continue, to ensure the protection of local communities."

The PA commander also assured the families of the two soldiers of the military's full support during what he described as a "difficult time." The fourth-class San Jose de Buan town with a population of nearly 8,000 is one of the NPA's strongholds in Samar Island, considering its strategic location within the tri-boundaries of Northern, Eastern and Samar provinces.