Identified Slain Rebels in Northern Samar Conflict
In the hinterlands of Barangay San Isidro, Las Navas, Northern Samar, on July 31, 2025, a significant operation was carried out by the military personnel. The operation was prompted by a tip from a concerned citizen, who reported an armed group extorting and threatening farmers at the location.
During the two back-to-back gun battles, ten firearms, including a K3 light machine gun (LMG), were recovered. Unfortunately, three rebels were killed in the clashes. Among the fallen were Richard Jumadiao alias "Joban," communist-leader of SRGU Laysan, EVRPC; alias Berbon, vice squad leader, Independent Squad, RGU; and Jinky Senobio alias "Sinag," member of Squad 1, RGU, EVRPC.
Richard Jumadiao and his group have been linked to multiple atrocities in Northern Samar, including a series of ambuscades (surprise attacks), extortion, and the radicalization of civilians. These activities have reportedly jeopardized government projects and peace initiatives aimed at sustainable development in the region.
The communist rebel group in the Eastern Visayas region, which includes the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) and the Regional Guerilla Unit (RGU), has been waging a Maoist-inspired guerrilla warfare since the late 1960s.
Major General Adonis Ariel Orio, 8ID commander, stated that the operation was conducted to protect the people. He also guaranteed the safety of those who choose to surrender and appealed to the remaining members of the armed movement to choose peace over violence. The 8ID will help surrendered individuals reintegrate with dignity and support.
The Eastern Visayas region, particularly Samar Island, continues to be affected by insurgency in the Philippines. The military's ongoing efforts to eliminate these armed groups and restore peace and security in the region are crucial for the success of government projects and initiatives aimed at sustainable development.
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- The Philippine government's ongoing operation in Barangay San Isidro, Las Navas, Northern Samar, targeted the communist rebel group in the Eastern Visayas region, particularly the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) and the Regional Guerilla Unit (RGU), known for their Maoist-inspired guerrilla warfare.
- The general-news surrounding the Philippines has been dominated by the crime-and-justice issues related to the communist rebel group, with the recent operation resulting in the death of key leaders like Richard Jumadiao, alias "Joban," and his associates, whose activities have been linked to extortion, ambuscades, and the radicalization of civilians in the region.
