Two Storms in Samar: Soldiers Face Rebels and Typhoon Tino in a Night of Courage and Chaos

Catbalogan City, Samar — As Typhoon Tino battered the eastern coasts of Samar, the storm’s howling winds were matched by another kind of tempest in the hinterlands of Llorente and Gen. MacArthur, Eastern Samar, where soldiers of the 63rd Infantry (Innovator) Battalion clashed with remnants of the Communist-NPA-Terrorists (CNTs) on November 3, 2025.

Braving torrential rains, flooded trails, and slippery slopes, the troops of the 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division pressed on with their focused military operations in the area. The encounter resulted in the death of one insurgent, identified as Joel Bobonao, also known by the aliases “Pen” and “Jack.” Recovered at the site were a .45 caliber pistol, ammunition, and several magazines of assorted firearms, along with personal belongings.

While the storm continued to ravage nearby communities, the soldiers moved swiftly, prioritizing both security operations and the safety of civilians in the area. The remaining combatants reportedly fled into the forest, and pursuit and clearing operations are ongoing to prevent further clashes and ensure that residents can weather both the storm and the unrest in peace.

Bravery Amid the Storm

Despite the punishing conditions, Major General Adonis Ariel G. Orio, Commander of the 8th Infantry Division, commended his troops for their courage and resilience.

“Even as our troops face harsh weather and hazardous terrain, their dedication to protect our people and sustain peace in Eastern Visayas remains unwavering,” Maj. Gen. Orio said.

Maj. Gen. Orio added that the military’s mission goes beyond combat—it includes helping people rebuild their lives and restoring normalcy in communities long affected by both conflict and calamity.

A Plea for Peace and New Beginnings

In the wake of the encounter, the 8ID renewed its call for the remaining members of the Communist-Terrorist Groups (CTGs) to surrender peacefully and take part in the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP)—an initiative that offers former rebels amnesty, livelihood support, and a chance to start anew.

“There is always a way out of the struggle,” Maj. Gen. Orio emphasized. “The government’s hand remains open to those who wish to return to their families and live in peace.”

Serving Amid Crisis

Even as the military maintains its heightened alert for internal security, the 8ID “Stormtroopers” also continue to perform Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) missions to assist families affected by Typhoon Tino—clearing roads, delivering relief goods, and helping local governments restore essential services.

For the people of Eastern Visayas, this week’s events served as a stark reminder of the dual storms they face—one of nature and another born of decades-long insurgency. Yet amid the hardship, hope endures: that peace and compassion may one day calm both.