CNT leader killed, high powered firearm and explosive seized in Calbiga, Samar

By DPAO, 8ID PA
April 19, 2020

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – Elements of the 46th Infantry Battalion, 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army encountered more or less five fully armed men believed to be remnants of a Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) group operating in southern part Samar resulting to the death of CNT leader Noel Galvez alias Bani in a 3-minute firefight at the vicinity of Brgy. Buluan, Calbiga, Samar at around 5:15 in the morning of April 18, 2020.

There was no casualty in the government forces while the enemy, aside from the killed CNT leader, one (1) M14 rifle loaded with ammunition and one (1) Improvised Explosive Device (IED) with estimated weight of seven kilograms were seized.

The gunfight was the result of the timely report of some concerned civilians pertaining the presence of the CNTs led by Galvez harassing the populace.

The same group of CNTs was responsible for the murder of former rebel Ildefonso Nablo Jr alias Marwan last April 9, 2020.

Lieutenant Colonel Rhomel R. Langcauon, Commanding Officer of 46IB lauded his troops for the successful community security operation. He also thanked the vigilance of the community for the timely information provided to the security forces.

Colonel Camilo Z. Ligayo, Commander of 801st Infantry Brigade stated, "The neutralization of Noel Galvez alias Bani will bring a strong and clear message to the rebels that the government is serious in ending local communist armed conflict in Eastern Visayas."