Philippines: Authorities evacuate residents in Northern Samar amid clashes between New People's Army and security forces July 14

Event

Authorities evacuated at least 1,000 residents from Barangay Hitapian and Barangay San Jose Hibubullao in Catubig, Northern Samar Province, amid clashes between the New People's Army (NPA) and security forces July 14. Reports indicate that insurgents forcefully entered the villagers' homes during a military offensive in the area. There were no reports of injuries or casualties.

The incident site is around 100 km (62 miles) north of Tacloban City.

Context

President Rodrigo Duterte said Dec. 7 that he would not allow any ceasefire between the government and the NPA during the rest of his administration through 2022. Security officials have also advised Duterte against a ceasefire in past years, claiming that the NPA exploits the cessation in hostilities to recruit additional militants and carry out extortion activities. Additionally, previous ceasefire agreements usually break down before their planned expiration, with both sides accusing the other of violating the declarations.

The recent incident comes amid a recent increase in fighting in the region, including in Samar and Surigao del Norte. While NPA is mostly active in Mindanao, the group has also engaged in clashes with authorities on Samar Island. On July 10, Suspected NPA insurgents killed a soldier and village chief in Las Navas, Northern Samar. Separately, authorities killed two NPA rebels in Bacuag, Surigao del Norte during a military operation July 12. Additional NPA attacks and clashes with security personnel are likely over the coming days. Authorities will likely increase security measures in the affected areas, including increasing security checks and erecting additional checkpoints.