CATBALOGAN CITY, Philippines – An encounter with government forces in Barangay Barayong, Motiong, Samar, on October 23, 2024, resulted in the death of a member of the New People’s Army (NPA), a military official said Sunday.
Capt. Jefferson Mariano, chief of the 8th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office said the clash took place as troops from the 87th Infantry Battalion confronted three suspected members of the Yakal Platoon, Sub-Regional Committee Browser, and Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee.
The skirmish lasted approximately five minutes before the insurgents retreated southeast, Mariano said.
The following day, soldiers recovered the body of an insurgent, identified by the aliases “Tisoy” and “Pogi.” Found alongside the body were an M14 rifle, ammunition, anti-personnel mines, and other personal belongings.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident, a soldier lost his life amid military operations during Typhoon Kristine. Pvt. Boyet P. Bogtong, 25, a native of Lavezares N. Samar, reportedly slipped from a riverbank and was swept away by strong currents on October 22, 2024.
Search and rescue efforts were launched downstream, leading to the recovery of Pvt. Bogtong’s body two days later in the river near Barangay Anagasi, Paranas, Samar.
Brig. Gen. Perfecto P. Peñaredondo, acting commander of the 8th Infantry Division, extended his condolences to Pvt. Bogtong’s family, highlighting the dedication and bravery of the military personnel.
“Private Bogtong’s sacrifice stands as a solemn testament to the bravery and commitment of our troops, who remain steadfast in their duties despite severe weather and challenging conditions,” Peñaredondo said. | via Ricky Bautista
