In a tragic incident in Matuguinao, Samar, the local government has vehemently criticized the New People’s Army (NPA) following the death of Corporal Bobby Barocaboc. The soldier was killed on February 2, 2025, in San Roque village while on a mission to ensure the safe delivery of social services to remote areas. Mayor Aran Boller labeled the attack as a ‘terroristic act’ by the NPA, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of life due to actions by communist terrorist groups (CTGs). Boller reaffirmed the municipality’s solid support for the Philippine Army’s efforts to maintain peace and security within the community. Details of the encounter remain undisclosed by the military, but it was confirmed that Barocaboc was part of a unit tasked with protecting the community and facilitating essential services, particularly in isolated regions. Major General Adonis Ariel Orio, from the Army’s 8th Infantry Battalion, expressed condolences to Barocaboc’s family, emphasizing the soldier’s ultimate sacrifice for Eastern Visayas. Orio vowed to continue the fight against insurgents to bring lasting peace and progress to the area. He also encouraged active NPA members to consider the government’s National Amnesty Program, advising them to reach out to relatives or local officials to safely apply for amnesty.
