Three alleged members of the New People’s Army (NPA) died in an encounter with personnel of the 8^th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division (ID) of the Philippine Army in the Province of Samar.

According to Major General Adonis Ariel Orio, commander of the 8th ID, the army launched the operation after receiving reports from concerned citizens on the presence of an armed group in the area. 

Of the three who died, two have been identified. 

High-powered firearms and other caliber of weapons were seized from the suspects. 

Further, members of the army rescued two 14-year-old girls. 

The girls were recruited allegedly by the suspects. 

The girls were taken into the custody of the Municipal Social Welfare Office. 

Meanwhile, another alleged member of the NPA in the Province of Negros Oriental was arrested in Dalaguete town, Cebu Province. 

Alias “Jayson” was nabbed in a joint operation of the 703rd Regional Mobile Force Battalion and the Dalaguete Police morning on March 22, 2025 in Barangay Mantalongon through a warrant of arrest issued by the court. 

The suspect has been identified as an active member of the NPA operating in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental who has a case for murder.