TACLOBAN CITY: The Philippine Army has uncovered the remains of an infant in an abandoned lair of the New People's Army (NPA) in the mountains of Catubig, Northern Samar, indicating a possible violation of human rights and the International Humanitarian Law (IHL). The Army's 20th Infantry Battalion reported on Thursday that troops also found some baby clothes, a milk bottle, and a baby pillow. According to Philippines News Agency, Lt. Col. Richard Villaflor, commander of the 20th Infantry Battalion, said the discovery on Nov. 11 highlights the risks and hardships civilians, including infants, face in conflict areas controlled by armed groups. 'The discovery cites the presence of civilians in hostile environments and the alleged use of non-combatants in terrorist-occupied zones,' Villaflor said. Reports indicate that some communist group members may have been pregnant or have given birth under unsafe and difficult conditions within the encampment, according to the official. 'We are committed to protecting th e rights and welfare of civilians, especially the most vulnerable, and will not tolerate violations of human rights or humanitarian law,' he added. The Army unit, in coordination with the local government, is arranging a decent burial for the infant. Catubig Mayor Solomon Vicencio, in a statement, expressed his deep sadness that the conflict has claimed a young, innocent life. 'It's heartbreaking to see that a child must bear the burden of the choices made by others. I appeal to those who still consider the path of violence to think of the families, the children, and the future generation that suffers as a result. Let us work together toward peace and development, giving our children the opportunity to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment, free from the consequences of armed conflict,' Vicencio said in a separate statement. The discovery of abandoned lairs is part of the intensified hunt of the Army's 20th Infantry Battalion for remnants of NPA combatants engaged in a series of clashes in the mountai ns of Catubig town. The series of gun battles in Catubig began on Nov. 5 after soldiers responded to reports from civilians about armed NPA members extorting and intimidating farmers in the area.