Hinunangan LGU vows to sustain peace, security, and development following SIPSC declaration

By DPAO, 8ID PA
May 2, 2026

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Hinunangan, Southern Leyte, led by Mayor Ymard Joseph T. Tocmo, has pledged to sustain peace, security, and development in the municipality following its declaration under the Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC).

The declaration and the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) were held in a simple ceremony at the Municipal Function Hall, 3rd Floor, New Municipal Building, Barangay Labrador, Hinunangan, Southern Leyte on Wednesday, April 29.

Mayor Tocmo expressed his gratitude for achieving the milestone, noting that the municipality had previously experienced frequent sightings of members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG), which caused fear among residents. He credited the Philippine Army for its crucial role in eliminating the internal security threat.

“Dati ay daanan ito ng mga NPA at marami talagang sightings sa lugar. Sa tulong ng Philippine Army, nawala ang banta ng kalaban. Ngayon, makakaakit na tayo ng mga mamumuhunan at uusbong ang ating ekonomiya sa Hinunangan. Bahagi ito ng mabuting pamamahala at tungkulin ng LGU na panatilihin ang kapayapaan at kaayusan sa ating lugar,” Mayor Tocmo said.

It can be recalled that five years ago, a member of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) was killed by the Special Partisan Unit (SPARU) of the CTG in Barangay Calinao while traveling to Barangay Upper Bantawon, Hinunangan, Southern Leyte.

Despite the challenges, Mayor Tocmo reaffirmed his commitment to sustain the gains in peace and security through continued collaboration with the Philippine Army, Philippine National Police, and other stakeholders.

He also called on Paterno Opo, a member of the dismantled Squad 2, Platoon 1, Island Committee LEVOX of the CTG and a resident of Hinunangan to surrender and return to the government, emphasizing that there is no longer any reason to continue armed struggle as government services are now reaching communities.

“Nananawagan ako kay Paterno Opo na bumalik na sa gobyerno. Ano ang kinabukasan mo sa kabila? Wala kang kalayaan. Dito sa pamahalaan, inilalapit na ang lahat ng serbisyo sa mamamayan,” he added.

Meanwhile, the 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division, Philippine Army assured the public of its continued presence and commitment to safeguarding the municipality even after the insurgency-free declaration.

“Hindi po ibig sabihin na kapag naideklara nang insurgency-free ang isang lugar ay iiwan na namin ito. Patuloy naming babantayan ang komunidad laban sa muling pag-usbong ng impluwensya ng CTG, lalo na sa kanilang dating mga pinagtataguan. Nariyan po ang ating kasundaluhan upang tiyakin ang inyong seguridad,” the 8ID said.

The 8ID emphasized that the achievement is a result of the collective efforts of ground troops, local government units, and partner stakeholders.

During the ceremony all barangay chairpersons from the municipality’s 40 barangays, along with 805th Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion and representatives from the Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and other partner agencies, also expressed their full support and commitment to sustaining peace and security.

As of today, 20 municipalities and cities in the province of Leyte have been declared under a state of Stable Internal Peace and Security. The 8th Infantry Division continues to work closely with the remaining local government units to facilitate the declaration of the other 20 municipalities in the province.

Meanwhile, the Province of Southern Leyte is set to declare its own Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition on May 5, 2026, making it the second province in Eastern Visayas to do so, following Biliran.

Civilian farmer rescued during encounter in Samar, safely reunited with family

By DPAO, 8ID PA
May 2, 2026

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – A 54-year-old farmer who was caught in the crossfire during an encounter between government troops and Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) in Samar has been safely rescued and reunited with his family, underscoring the Philippine Army’s steadfast commitment to human rights and International Humanitarian Law (IHL).

On 24 April 2026, the troops of the 46th Infantry Battalion (46IB) and 81st Division Reconnaissance Company (81DRC), while conducting a legitimate focused military operation, encountered CTG members in the vicinity of Brgy. Pamamas-an and Brgy. Caulayanan, Motiong, Samar. During the encounter, the troops rescued Mr. Samuel Gabane, who was inadvertently caught in the firefight.

Mr. Gabane was safely extracted from the conflict area and was immediately provided with food, care, and initial assistance by the troops.

Due to his inability to coherently provide personal details at the time, the 46th Infantry Battalion (46IB) promptly coordinated with the Motiong Municipal Police Station (MPS), in coordination with legal officers of the 8th Infantry Division, to ensure proper handling, identification, and documentation.

Mr. Gabane was subsequently turned over to the Motiong MPS, where authorities facilitated the verification of his identity. His family, together with barangay officials from Brgy. Victory, Jiabong, Samar, later arrived and positively confirmed his identity.

In addition, he was brought to the Rural Health Unit of Jiabong for a thorough medical examination to ensure his well-being. The Jiabong Municipal Police Station likewise facilitated the proper documentation of the incident, including blotter entry and required reports.

The family expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the troops for their swift response and humane treatment.

“Dako gud an amon pasalamat ha Philippine Army, PNP, ngan ha mga opisyal han barangay ha ira bulig ha pag-rescue ngan pag-uli han amon paryente nga hi Samuel. Salamat han iyo madagmit nga aksyon ngan pag-ataman ha iya samtang nawawara hiya. Dako ini nga bulig para ha amon pamilya.”

This incident highlights the Philippine Army’s strict adherence to human rights and International Humanitarian Law, ensuring that the safety and welfare of civilians remain a top priority in the conduct of military operations.

Million-peso milestone: Leyte fisherfolk hit record catch with eco-friendly Lambaklad gear

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
April 30, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – The Golden Fish Warrior Fisherfolk Association (GFWFA), a beneficiary of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – Special Area for Agricultural Development (BFAR-SAAD) Program, has set a new record after earning P1,039,820.00 in gross income from a single overnight fishing operation on April 27, 2026 in the coastal waters of Tolosa, Leyte.

Using its Set Net (Lambaklad) project, the association hauled in 5.7 tons of high-value fish species, including giant trevally (Mamsa). This is now the highest recorded production since the Lambaklad project began operations in 2024.

The latest harvest also surpassed GFWFA’s previous peak production of 3,032.15 kilograms recorded in November 2025, underscoring the growing productivity and profitability of the fisherfolk-managed enterprise.

Since receiving assistance under the BFAR-SAAD Program, GFWFA has accumulated a total production of 20.5 tons of high-value species, generating an overall gross income of P4,023,606.75. For the association’s members, these gains translate into better incomes, more stable livelihoods, and stronger support for their families and community.

Lambaklad as a Game-Changer for Coastal Communities

The success of GFWFA is being hailed as a concrete example of how sustainable fishing technologies can uplift coastal communities while protecting the country’s aquatic resources.

In line with the government’s commitment to ensuring accessible and affordable food for all Filipinos, the BFAR–Capture Fisheries Division (BFAR-CFD) is actively promoting innovative and eco-friendly fishing methods that boost fish production without degrading marine ecosystems.

At the center of this effort is Lambaklad, also known as set-net, a Japanese-derived technology called otoshi-ami. The gear is being introduced in the Philippines through a collaborative initiative between government and private sector partners.

Unlike highly extractive fishing methods, Lambaklad is designed as a selective fishing approach. It uses a system of nets, floaters, and stakes to form a barrier that guides target fish into a central net, while allowing non-target and juvenile species to escape. This helps maintain ecological balance and supports the long-term sustainability of fish stocks

Sustainable Livelihood, Stronger Food Security

BFAR’s promotion of Lambaklad aims not only to improve catch volumes but also to provide a reliable and sustainable source of livelihood for fisherfolk, many of whom belong to some of the most economically vulnerable sectors in the country.

By pairing technology support with community-based management through associations like GFWFA, the program helps fisherfolk transition from small, uncertain daily catches to more organized, higher-value production systems

The GFWFA’s million-peso overnight haul illustrates how modern, sustainable fishing practices can directly benefit local communities, contribute to national food security, and ensure that the country’s rich marine resources are responsibly managed for future generations.

Senate pushes inquiry on electricity subsidies to protect consumers

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
April 28, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – Senator Bam Aquino has filed Senate Resolution No. 375, directing the Committee on Energy to conduct an inquiry into the design, targeting, and financing of the lifeline rate subsidy and other mandated electricity discounts. The measure seeks to ensure that these social protection mechanisms remain fair, sustainable, and do not impose undue burdens on ordinary consumers.

The resolution highlights the policy of the State to promote social justice, particularly for vulnerable sectors such as low-income households. Under the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA), marginalized end-users are entitled to a lifeline rate subsidy to help them afford electricity. This policy was further strengthened by Republic Act No. 11552, which identified qualified beneficiaries, including households under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).

According to rules issued by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), households consuming between zero and fifty kilowatt-hours per month may receive up to a 100 percent discount on electricity charges. While this provides critical relief to poor families, the resolution raises concerns about the financing of these subsidies, which are often recovered through cross-subsidy mechanisms that shift costs to other consumers.

Senator Aquino emphasized that the inquiry is not intended to remove or diminish the lifeline rate subsidy, but rather to ensure that it remains well-targeted, fiscally sustainable, and equitably financed. The resolution underscores the need to balance social protection with fairness, so that non-beneficiary households – particularly middle-income families – are not disproportionately burdened.

The proposed Senate inquiry is expected to examine alternative financing mechanisms, including possible funding through the national budget, to enhance transparency and accountability in the delivery of electricity subsidies.

Sogod, Southern Leyte and Calbiga, Samar declared insurgency-free

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
April 27, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – The municipalities of Sogod, Southern Leyte and Calbiga, Samar have officially been declared under Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC) on April 22 and 23, marking a historic milestone in the government’s campaign to end local armed conflict and sustain peace in Eastern Visayas.

In Sogod, the local government unanimously approved Resolution No. 282-2026, authored by Peace and Order Committee Chairperson Hon. Rozelyn O. Paranas, affirming the town’s transition to a secure and peaceful environment. Vice Mayor Jose Ramil G. Golo emphasized that the declaration strengthens Sogod’s long-term development goals, including its aspiration for cityhood. “This milestone positions us to attract more investors and supports our bid toward becoming a city. As a first-class municipality, this serves as a stepping stone toward that goal,” he said.

DILG Southern Leyte Provincial Director Danilo A. Laguitan welcomed the achievement, stressing that peace is the foundation of progress. “A peaceful environment builds investor confidence. But sustaining peace requires continuous effort – integrating peace and development initiatives into local plans, budgets, and programs is essential. Good governance remains the strongest antidote to insurgency,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Calbiga, Samar – once considered an insurgency hotspot – has likewise achieved SIPSC status. The milestone was formally marked by the Ceremonial Signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) led by Mayor Red Nacario and Vice Mayor Eva Castillo, alongside provincial officials, security forces, and partner agencies.

Mayor Nacario expressed gratitude to the Provincial Government of Samar, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police, and local stakeholders for their sustained support. He credited government interventions, particularly farm-to-market road projects under NTF-ELCAC, for improving access and addressing long-standing concerns in 21 upland barangays.

“Peace is not merely the absence of conflict – it is the presence of trust and shared purpose. Peace is the foundation of progress, resilience, and inclusive development,” Nacario said. He also appealed to the remaining three Calbiga residents still affiliated with the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) to surrender and reintegrate into society, assuring them of safety and government support programs for their transition.

The 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division, Philippine Army lauded the achievement of both municipalities, recognizing it as a significant milestone that reflects strong collaboration among local government units, security forces, and communities in sustaining lasting peace and development.

Two NPA members neutralized, firearms seized in Motiong, Samar clash

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
April 25, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – Troops of the 46th Infantry Battalion, under the 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division, Philippine Army, engaged remnants of the Yakal Platoon, Sub-Regional Committee Browser, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC), in a seven-minute firefight at the hinterlands of Barangay Caulayanan, Motiong, Samar, on April 24, 2026.

Following the encounter, government forces recovered one M14 rifle, a caliber .45 pistol, and the remains of two unidentified Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) members abandoned by their fleeing comrades.

The 8th Infantry Division underscored that this clash marks another major setback for the already weakened CTG in Eastern Visayas.

“The neutralization of these armed individuals and the recovery of their firearms further degrade the operational capability of the CTG in Samar. This reflects the sustained pressure being applied by our troops on the ground,” the Division stated.

It added that the series of short, sporadic encounters highlights the CTG’s diminishing strength and eroding cohesion.

“Despite their attempts to evade government forces, our troops remain relentless in pursuing these armed groups. Their abandonment of their fallen comrades once again exposes their disregard for human life within their ranks.”

The Division reiterated its appeal for remaining CTG members to surrender and avail themselves of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which offers assistance and opportunities for peaceful reintegration.

“We urge the remaining members of the CTG to lay down their arms and reunite with their families. The government is ready to support their reintegration into society.”

Meanwhile, focused military operations continue in the area to track down fleeing CTG members and safeguard the peace and security of local communities.

Philippine Army artillery troops hone life-saving skills with US Army in Balikatan 2026

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
April 24, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – As part of Exercise Balikatan 41-2026, soldiers from the Philippine Army’s Artillery Regiment underwent intensive Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) training from April 20 to 22 at Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport. The three-day course was led by United States Army medics, underscoring the two allies’ shared commitment to saving lives both in combat and humanitarian operations.

The training enhanced critical battlefield medical skills, including hemorrhage control, airway management, casualty evacuation, and prolonged field care. Conducted under realistic, high-pressure scenarios, the exercises reinforced a vital operational truth: the ability to preserve life is as essential as the ability to fight.

Beyond instruction, the program became a venue for mutual knowledge exchange. Philippine Army personnel contributed field-tested techniques and operational insights, complementing U.S. practices and highlighting the value of two-way learning in strengthening mission effectiveness.

Anchored on interoperability, the training deepened coordination and professional trust between the Philippine Army and the U.S. Army, ensuring both forces can operate seamlessly in complex environments. This collaborative approach reflects a mature partnership built on shared expertise and respect.

At the same time, the initiative underscores the Philippine Army’s drive toward force professionalism – developing soldiers who are not only mission-ready but also equipped with humanitarian and medical response skills. Today’s modern soldier is trained not only to neutralize threats, but to preserve life whenever possible.

Through activities like TCCC under Balikatan, the Philippine Army affirms its transformation into a capable, adaptive, and people-centered force – one that places equal importance on operational excellence and the protection of human life.

Calbiga launches Pahoy-Pahoy AgriCOOLture Garden Challenge 2026

“Growing Greener Communities, One Garden at a Time”

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
April 20, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – In times of uncertainty, the strongest communities are those that can sustain themselves. This guiding principle is at the heart of the Pahoy-Pahoy AgriCOOLture Garden Challenge 2026, officially launched by the Local Government of Calbiga as part of its resilience and food security initiative.

The program is more than a competition. It is a community-driven effort to strengthen household-level food security, promote sustainable local food systems, and build neighborhoods that can endure, adapt, and grow. From small backyard gardens to larger peri-urban plots and innovative vertical setups, every “tanom” (plant) is seen as a step toward a stronger Calbiga.

Contest Categories and Prizes

Participants will compete in three categories:

   - Best Urban Garden (small space/home-based)

   - Best Peri-Urban Garden (larger plots)

   - Best Innovative Garden (vertical, container, recycled materials)

Each category offers cash prizes of P10,000 for first place, P6,000 for second, and P4,000 for third. In addition, 12 consolation prizes worth P2,000 each will be awarded, along with certificates of recognition.

Key Dates

   - Registration: April 20–29, 2026

   - Orientation: April 30, 2026

   - Garden Proper: May 1, 2026

   - Final Judging: July 27–30, 2026

   - Awarding: Date to be announced

A Call to Action

Local officials emphasize that the challenge is not just about winning prizes. “This is about being ready. This is about taking control of our future – together,” the LGU declared in its announcement. The initiative encourages residents to see gardening as both a livelihood and a lifeline, ensuring that families can rely on their own harvests in times of need.

The contest is open to residents of Barangays 1-7 and lowland areas of Calbiga. Organizers urge households and communities to register and showcase their gardens, contributing to the municipality’s vision of greener, more sustainable living.

As the campaign slogan declares: Padayon kita. One garden at a time.

8ID sustains security operations in Samar; One CTG member neutralized, firearms seized

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
April 18, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – The Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division has reported a series of armed encounters across Samar Island this week, resulting in the neutralization of a Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) member and the recovery of high-powered firearms and other war materiel.

On April 16, troops from the 19th Infantry Battalion (19IB) clashed with members of Squad 1, Sub-Regional Guerrilla Unit under the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) in the hinterlands of Silvino Lobos, Northern Samar.

The following day, April 17, soldiers from the 46th Infantry “Peacemakers” Battalion (46IB) engaged approximately four CTG fighters believed to be members of the Yakal Platoon under SRC Browser in Barangay Salvacion, Jiabong, Samar. The firefight, which began at around 6:45 AM, was enabled by timely information from local residents. One CTG member, identified as alias John Paul of the Regional Security Force, was killed in the encounter. Government forces sustained no casualties.

Troops recovered an M4 Bushmaster rifle, assorted food supplies, and personal belongings at the site. The remains of alias John Paul were brought to Faith Funeral Homes in Catbalogan City for identification and proper disposition by his family.

On the same day, elements of the 63rd Infantry Battalion (63IB) discovered a cache of firearms in Barangay San Onion, Sta. Rita, Samar. The cache included two caliber .357 pistols, three caliber .38 revolvers, and two caliber .22 firearms.

Lieutenant Colonel Marvin A. Inocencio, Commanding Officer of 46IB, emphasized the importance of community cooperation in the success of military operations. “This engagement highlights the effectiveness of our sustained and focused military operations against CTGs. Equally important is the continued trust and active cooperation of our communities, whose timely support and information are crucial to the success of our mission,” he said.

The 8ID stressed that these successive encounters demonstrate the declining strength of the CTG in Eastern Visayas, as members are increasingly isolated, weakened, and forced to abandon their comrades and resources. The Division reiterated its call for remaining CTG members to lay down their arms and avail of government reintegration programs, which offer opportunities for a peaceful and productive life.

While resolute in its mission to neutralize armed threats, the Army underscored that it does not celebrate the loss of life. Instead, it expressed sadness over missed opportunities for combatants to choose peace and reunite with their families.

The 8ID reaffirmed its commitment to sustain intensified operations while extending the hand of peace to those who surrender, ensuring the safety, security, and long-term stability of communities in Samar and the wider Eastern Visayas region.

8ID pays tribute to reservists’ valor in 84th Araw ng Kagitingan Rites in Palo, Leyte

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
April 11, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – The 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division, Philippine Army, through Brigadier General Pompeyo Jason M. Almagro, PA, Commander of the 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade, honored the heroism of Army reservists during the 84th Araw ng Kagitingan commemoration held April 9 at the Marker of the Unknown Soldier, MacArthur Shrine, Government Center, Candahug, Palo, Leyte.

With the theme “Giting ng Bayani, Pamana sa Salinlahi,” the ceremony highlighted the enduring legacy of Filipino courage and sacrifice, inspiring both soldiers and civilians to safeguard the nation’s hard-earned freedom.

“As soldiers, we constantly display heroism not only during Araw ng Kagitingan. The mere fact that we serve the country, despite the sacrifices we make, even risking our lives, reflects our willingness to uphold the freedom and peace of our nation,” BGEN Almagro said.

Adding a voice from history, 80-year-old former Constabulary member Pantaleon Estolero of Tolosa, Leyte, urged younger soldiers to carry forward the mission of service with strength, competence, and discipline.

Board Member Villasin, in her message, stressed that the commemoration is not merely remembrance but a renewal of Filipino identity and patriotism. She honored the courage of forefathers who fought for independence and sovereignty.

The solemn program featured symbolic rites including a wreath-laying, 21-gun salute, water salute, cultural dance presentation, and floral offering led by the Sons and Daughters of the Veterans. Board Member Villasin spearheaded the wreath-laying, joined by representatives from law enforcement agencies and partner stakeholders.

Among those present were Palo Mayor Remedios Petilla; veteran Michael Margallo, Regional Assistant of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines – Region 8; Mario Blasabas, Officer-in-Charge of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office Field Service Office 8; officials from the Leyte Provincial Police Office, Bureau of Fire Protection, and Philippine Coast Guard; veterans; and members of the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of the Philippines.