Five suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed in a series of clashes with government forces in Barangay Nagoocan, Catubig, Northern Samar, on Tuesday, June 3, 2025.
The 8th Infantry Division (8ID) of the Philippine Army recovered the fifth body during a follow-up operation on Wednesday. Authorities are still working to confirm the identities of the deceased.
According to military reports, the encounter was triggered by a tip about alleged extortion activities being conducted by armed men in the area.
Government troops clashed with around 30 individuals believed to be part of the regional guerrilla unit and the sub-regional committee Arctic under the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee.
In addition to the five fatalities, two other NPA members surrendered to authorities following the skirmish.
Troops also recovered three high-powered firearms from the encounter site.
The operation came just a day after the 20th Infantry Battalion discovered a weapons and explosives cache in Barangay Roxas, also in Catubig, on June 2.
Authorities continue to monitor the area for possible movements of remaining rebel elements.
