Despite SOMO, NPA disrupts peace in Northern Samar

By Philippine Information Agency (PIA 8)
December 21, 2011

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City  –  Despite the goodwill shown by the Armed Forces of the Philippines through its declaration of a unilateral ceasefire, the local terrorists in the municipality of Las Navas consistently defy the call for peace.

A soldier got killed while another was wounded while performing community work when members of the communist terrorists attacked them in the early morning of December 20 at Barangay San Miguel, Las Navas, Northern Samar.

Lt. Colonel Niceforo Diaz, spokesman of the 8th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, informed that the casualties have been evacuated from the site of the incident.

The identification of both soldiers’ who are members of the 34th Infantry Battalion are withheld until their families have been notified, Lt. Colonel Diaz said.

Murder charges are now being prepared against the alleged perpetrators who remain at large.

To recall, upon the recommendation of the AFP, the government has declared an 18-day truce from December 16 to January 2 of this year.

The government traditionally declares a suspension of offensive military operations (SOMO) with the communist NPA rebels during Christmas and New Year’s Day to give both sides a respite to celebrate with their loved ones.