Two Suspected CTG Members Killed in Eastern Samar Encounter

Posted on October 29, 2026 at 11:25 AM

Dolores, Eastern Samar — Two suspected members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) were killed in an encounter with government troops in Barangay Jicontol, Dolores, Eastern Samar, early Wednesday, October 28, 2026.

Army Lt. Col. Joseph Sabas, public affairs chief of the 8th Infantry Division (8ID), said troops recovered two high-powered firearms following the encounter. No casualties were reported among government forces.

Sabas said the operation was launched after residents reported the presence of armed individuals in the area. According to the military, the group was allegedly involved in extortion activities targeting farming communities.

Troops encountered the armed group as they approached its alleged encampment in the hinterlands of Barangay Jicontol.

The military also reported discovering anti-personnel landmines near the group’s defensive positions, prompting the deployment of air and artillery support during the operation.

Maj. Gen. Peter Burgonio, commander of the 8ID, said the use of air and artillery assets was intended to address the threats posed by the reported explosives and the group’s fortified positions.

The identities of the two fatalities, believed by the military to be members of the armed group, have yet to be established.

The 8ID said it was coordinating with local government units and its civil-military operations teams to address security concerns in nearby communities.

Pursuit operations against other suspected members of the group were ongoing when the military issued its statement.

The 8ID reiterated its call for the remaining members of the group to surrender and return to the fold of the law.

Photo Courtesy: Public Affairs Office, 8ID