TACLOBAN CITY – Government troops recovered the body of another slain New People’s Army (NPA) member in Barangay Nagoocan, Catubig, Northern Samar, bringing the total number of rebel fatalities to five following a series of armed encounters in the area since June 4, 2025.

Soldiers from the 8th Infantry Division (8ID) also recovered several high-powered firearms at the site, including an Ultimax squad automatic weapon, an M16 rifle, and a Uzi submachine gun. Authorities are now verifying the origin of the weapons to determine whether any were previously issued to government security forces.

The 8ID immediately secured both the remains of the slain insurgent and the confiscated firearms.

According to Major Jefferson Mariano, chief of the 8ID Division Public Affairs Office, efforts are ongoing to confirm the identities of the five NPA fatalities.

He also confirmed that all the deceased rebels will be given a proper burial, underscoring the Army’s humanitarian approach in conflict situations.

8ID commander Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio extended his condolences to the families of the slain rebels and emphasized the significance of recovering military-grade weapons.

“This retrieval is regarded by the Philippine Army as a significant step in regaining control over critical government property and denying the rebels the use of military assets to pursue their interests,” he said.

“The 8ID will remain relentless in its mission to secure every inch of territory and every piece of equipment that strengthens our fight to establish peace and development in every community we serve,” Orio added.

Orio also reiterated his call for remaining NPA members to surrender, avail themselves of the government’s National Amnesty Program, and return to mainstream society. He urged them to coordinate with their families for safe passage and assistance in applying for amnesty.

Meanwhile, in San Jose de Buan, Samar, the 87th Infantry Battalion (IB), in coordination with the local government unit, ensured a dignified burial for an NPA member killed in a May 29 encounter in the municipality.

The body was left behind by fleeing comrades after the firefight.

According to a statement from the 87IB, the burial served as a gesture of humanitarian respect, even for those who had taken up arms against the state.

“This compassionate gesture reflects the commitment of both the 87IB and the local government to foster peace and uphold humanitarian values within their operations,” the statement read.

Local officials expressed hope that the act would inspire reflection among active insurgents and encourage them to consider reintegration and unity.

“The government continues its call for peace, urging all members of the community to support efforts that will bring lasting harmony and development to the municipality,” the statement added.

(ROEL T. AMAZONA)

TACLOBAN CITY – In a bid to ease worsening congestion and restore regional connectivity, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the region is considering increasing the load limit of the San Juanico Bridge to 33 tons, a major jump from the initially proposed 12 tons.

Engr. Margarita Junia, DPWH assistant regional director, said they have requested their engineering consultant, Angel Lazaro and Associates International, to assess the feasibility of the higher capacity.

“The initial plan, as mentioned by Secretary [Manuel] Bonoan, was to raise the load capacity to 12 tons. But this week, we also asked our consultant to compute for a 33-ton capacity,” Junia said in an online interview.

The iconic 2.16-kilometer bridge has been operating under a 3-ton limit since May 15, following structural concerns flagged by the consultancy firm. The partial closure of the 52-year-old structure has caused significant logistical disruptions, particularly to cargo deliveries and public transport.

If approved, the 33-ton load limit would accommodate larger vehicles such as buses, trucks, SUVs, and other commercial transport, helping decongest alternate routes and restore the bridge’s full logistical function.

Junia said the agency is still waiting for the retrofitting design from the consultant based on the revised capacity. However, no timeline for construction can be set yet, as the national government has yet to release the needed funds.

DPWH earlier pegged the cost of immediate repairs at P1.2 billion, while full rehabilitation could reach P5.68 billion.

The San Juanico Bridge, also known as Imelda Bridge, is a vital link between Leyte and Samar, used by over 14,000 vehicles daily, including more than 1,400 cargo trucks—the group most affected by the restrictions.

The load limit has already disrupted the delivery of fuel and essential goods to Samar provinces.

In response, Tacloban City and the provinces of Samar and Eastern Samar have declared a state of emergency to address the growing economic and logistical challenges caused by the restricted bridge access.

(JOEY A. GABIETA, LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

TACLOBAN CITY – Public schools across the region and th rest of the country are once again coming to life as Brigada Eskwela and enrollment for the 2025–2026 school year officially begin Monday, June 9, marking the start of nationwide preparations for the return of millions of learners to classrooms.

The synchronized activities fall under the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Oplan Balik Eskwela (OBE) 2025, a flagship initiative designed to ensure a smooth, safe, and organized opening of classes. Guided by DepEd Memorandum No. 45, s. 2025, the OBE will run from June 9 to June 20, 2025.

In the region, the Brigada Eskwela regional kick off was held at the Caibiran Elementary SPED Center in Caibiran, Biliran led by DepEd Regional Director Evelyn Fetalvero and Mayor Rhodessa Revita.

This year’s Brigada Eskwela, which coincides with the enrollment period for both elementary and secondary levels (June 9–13), once again calls on parents, teachers, community volunteers, and private sector partners to help prepare school facilities for the incoming academic year.

Its theme, “Brigada Eskwela: Sama-sama Para sa Bayang Bumabasa,” emphasizes the role of collective action in promoting literacy and improving learning environments.

The opening of this school term will be next Monday, June 16.

DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara has called on all stakeholders, particularly the private sector, to support Brigada Eskwela 2025, stressing the importance of a unified approach to making schools functional, welcoming, and safe for all learners.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)