Manila: The Philippine Army (PA) on Friday expressed gratitude to villagers in Northern Samar for their critical role in providing information that led to the recent neutralization of two members of the New People's Army (NPA).

According to Philippines News Agency, Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio, commander of the PA's 8th Infantry Division (8ID), highlighted the importance of community support in the successful operation conducted in Northern Samar. This region is considered the last bastion of insurgency in Eastern Visayas. "This successful operation against the remnants of the EVRPC (Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee) following the two successive encounters in Northern Samar is a testament to the unwavering commitment and unyielding dedication of the 8ID and the vital cooperation of the people of Northern Samar," Orio stated.

The operation resulted in the neutralization of two NPA combatants during an armed encounter in San Jose village, Mapanas, on August 27. Soldiers seized two M16 rifles, hundreds of M14 ammunition, five long magazines, and other war materiel from the clash site. The military is currently conducting a cross-investigation to confirm the identities of the two slain rebels, with one initially identified as Motaw Ortazo, alias 'Ibaro.'

The encounter was part of a focused military operation responding to reports from concerned residents about armed individuals conducting extortion activities in the upland communities of Mapanas town. Brig. Gen. Carmelito Pangatungan, commander of the 803rd Infantry Brigade, emphasized that the sustained partnership between the military and local communities was crucial to the operation's success and would help prevent the NPA's resurgence.

Brig. Gen. Pangatungan urged the people of Northern Samar to unite with the military to preserve peace and promote development. Similarly, Lt. Col. Francis Rosales, commander of the Army's 78th Infantry Battalion, praised his troops' determination and attributed the operational success to the residents' cooperation.

The recent operation adds to a series of defeats dealt to the EVRPC, including a decisive blow in San Isidro village, Las Navas, Northern Samar, on July 31, 2025, where eight rebels were killed, and 10 high-powered firearms were seized.