Leyte: The deaths of a squad leader and two other members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in a clash with government troops in Barangay Pange, Jaro, Leyte, on Monday mark a major setback for the insurgent group’s operations on Leyte Island. Brig. Gen. Pompeyo Jason Almagro, commander of the Philippine Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade, said in a phone interview on Tuesday that the NPA’s Island Committee Levox has been significantly weakened following the encounter. With the loss of three fighters from Squad 2, the unit now has only three members left, while Squad 1 retains 12.

According to Philippines News Agency, Squad 2 operates in the mountainous areas of central Leyte, while Squad 1 members have been moving within the boundaries of Leyte and Southern Leyte provinces. ‘The encounter is a big loss to the NPA, especially since they have already lost the support of communities in Leyte, making it difficult for them to recruit new members,’ Almagro told the Philippine News Agency.

The fatalities were identified as Fidel Lagado, alias Rod/Jason; medical officer Maricel Anora, alias Yenyen/Gani; and political guide Jun Berino, alias Sonny/Danny. Berino, who took part in various anti-government protests before the 2020 pandemic, had been tagged by the military as a top NPA recruiter.

Soldiers recovered a carbine rifle, three caliber .45 pistols, three rifle grenades, three mobile phones, subversive documents, and personal belongings at the encounter site. ‘We sympathize with the death of the three NPA members, but we have not wavered in our call for them to come down and surrender to achieve true peace in their lives,’ Almagro said. ‘This incident could have been avoided if they had listened to the government’s call. Once again, we urge the remaining NPA members in Leyte to surrender while it is still possible.’

The Army’s 93rd Infantry Battalion is assisting the families of the slain rebels and coordinating their burial.