4 perish in Calbayog City encounter

By DPAO, 8ID PA
August 23, 2019

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – A total of four (4) combatants consisting of two (2) soldiers from 43IB and two (2) terrorist New People’s Army died in an encounter at the vicinity of Brgy Olera, Calbayog City, Samar, today, 7:15 A.M.

Seven (7) members of the terrorist NPA led by Salvador Nordan aka Badok/Gahi under Sub-Regional Committee Emporium while collecting extortion money and food stuff from the populace, armed with high powered firearms were caught in the act by troops of 43IB which resulted to the encounter that lasted for almost two (2) hours.

Government troops held their ground thereby prompting NPA terrorists to run away in different directions leaving behind their two (2) dead comrades. The troops recovered in the scene, two (2) dead NPA terrorists and two (2) M14 Rifles, while the 43IB troops initially sustained three (3) Wounded-in-Action (WIA) who were immediately evacuated for proper treatment. Two of the WIAs were later declared dead on arrival at the nearest hospital. With the consent of their next of kin, their remains will later be interred after being accorded due honors for their heroism. There were also other NPA terrorists who were wounded from the encounter.

Meanwhile, troops coordinated with local officials and PNP-SOCO for the identification and proper disposition of dead bodies of NPA terrorists. The Tactical Operations Wing Central (TOWCEN), Philippine Air Force provided air support and casualty evacuation to the entire operation.

Maj. Gen. Pio Q. Diṅoso III AFP, Commander, 8ID, Philippine Army in his statement said, “It is very sad to note that with the sacrifice of two soldiers, two more NPA terrorists who are victims of deception also died for a senseless cause, wasting their lives in their failed armed revolution. I encourage the remaining New People’s Army to abandon their armed struggle, lay down their arms and return to the mainstream of society in the comfort of their families and friends. The Stormtroopers Division is willing to help NPA terrorists who wish to surrender and avail the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) being offered by the government.”