Government troops recovered firearms and explosives after a brief armed encounter with suspected members of a Communist Terrorist Group in San Jorge, Samar, on Feb. 2, 2026, the military said.
Soldiers from the 3rd Infantry Battalion, under the 8th Infantry Division, were conducting a combat patrol in Barangay Cagtoto-og after residents reported armed individuals allegedly extorting local farmers. Troops moved toward the reported area and responded after hearing gunfire, according to the military.
The 8th Infantry Division said armed group members fired at a civilian suspected of cooperating with authorities. Government forces pursued the retreating group, leading to a short firefight before the suspects fled.
After the encounter, soldiers recovered a caliber .45 pistol, several explosives and other war materiel that authorities said were left behind by the fleeing group.
No casualties were immediately reported by the military. Pursuit operations and security measures were intensified to prevent regrouping and ensure the safety of nearby communities, the division said.
Military officials reiterated their commitment to International Humanitarian Law and said efforts would continue to deny armed groups safe haven in Eastern Visayas. They also urged remaining members of the group to surrender and avail of the government’s Amnesty Program and the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program, or E-CLIP.
Authorities said operations remain ongoing in the area as troops coordinate with local officials and residents to maintain security following the clash.
