NPA leader killed in Eastern Samar encounter

TACLOBAN CITY, Philippines — A top leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) died in a clash with the military at Barangay Osmeña in General MacArthur town on Thursday.

According to a military report, Joel Guarino, a squad leader of the recently dismantled Apoy Platoon, was killed in a 20-minute encounter with members of the 78th Infantry Battalion.

Lt. Col. Joseph Bugaoan, 78th IB commander, told reporters yesterday that seven NPA members engaged his troops who were conducting development and security operations in the upland barangay.

Recovered from the slain rebel leader was a caliber .45 pistol, a homemade grenade and several other weapons and subversive materials.

“The people tipped us about the presence of these NPAs. That is why our soldiers were able to track their movement. However, they (military) were fired upon when the rebels saw them coming,” Bugaoan said.

Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir, 802 Infantry Brigade commander, commended the troops for tracking the remnants of the recently dismantled Apoy platoon.

“The neutralization of Guarino left the remnants of the newly dismantled Apoy Platoon leaderless and without direction. Now, they have become a roving band of bandits, hiding in the mountains to survive,” Vestuir said.

“I reiterate my call to the remaining NPAs in the islands of Samar and Leyte to peacefully abandon the armed struggle. The communities no longer support and welcome you. Do not wait to experience the same fate as what happened to your comrade today. The path of peace is ready to embrace you,” he added.