Borongan City: A member of the New People's Army (NPA) was killed in a clash with government forces in the mountains of Borongan City, Eastern Samar, the Philippine Army reported on Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir, commander of the Army's 802nd Infantry Brigade, stated that the rebel, identified as a member of the sub-regional committee Sesame of the NPA Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee, was killed during a 15-minute clash with soldiers in the upland village of Pinanag-an on Sunday.

Vestuir emphasized the seriousness of their ultimatum for the rebels to abandon their armed struggle, asserting that they are just beginning their operations. He promised relentless combat operations in the coming days.

The clash occurred after troops from the 63rd Infantry Battalion launched a strike operation based on community reports of armed individuals demanding food from villagers in the area. During the operation, the troops discovered the body of a male rebel alongside an M653 Carbine rifle, three backpacks, a bandoleer, and five short magazines.

The deceased rebel was identified by the troops as Jomar Discar, a resident of San Mateo village in Borongan City. Additionally, the troops seized an enemy encampment comprised of seven makeshift tents.

Vestuir called on NPA fighters in Eastern Samar and Samar provinces to leave the group, warning them of the potential for senseless deaths if they continue their involvement.