Civilian farmer rescued during encounter in Samar, safely reunited with family

By DPAO, 8ID PA
May 2, 2026

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – A 54-year-old farmer who was caught in the crossfire during an encounter between government troops and Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) in Samar has been safely rescued and reunited with his family, underscoring the Philippine Army's steadfast commitment to human rights and International Humanitarian Law (IHL).

On 24 April 2026, the troops of the 46th Infantry Battalion (46IB) and 81st Division Reconnaissance Company (81DRC), while conducting a legitimate focused military operation, encountered CTG members in the vicinity of Brgy. Pamamas-an and Brgy. Caulayanan, Motiong, Samar. During the encounter, the troops rescued Mr. Samuel Gabane, who was inadvertently caught in the firefight.

Mr. Gabane was safely extracted from the conflict area and was immediately provided with food, care, and initial assistance by the troops.

Due to his inability to coherently provide personal details at the time, the 46th Infantry Battalion (46IB) promptly coordinated with the Motiong Municipal Police Station (MPS), in coordination with legal officers of the 8th Infantry Division, to ensure proper handling, identification, and documentation.

Mr. Gabane was subsequently turned over to the Motiong MPS, where authorities facilitated the verification of his identity. His family, together with barangay officials from Brgy. Victory, Jiabong, Samar, later arrived and positively confirmed his identity.

In addition, he was brought to the Rural Health Unit of Jiabong for a thorough medical examination to ensure his well-being. The Jiabong Municipal Police Station likewise facilitated the proper documentation of the incident, including blotter entry and required reports.

The family expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the troops for their swift response and humane treatment.

"Dako gud an amon pasalamat ha Philippine Army, PNP, ngan ha mga opisyal han barangay ha ira bulig ha pag-rescue ngan pag-uli han amon paryente nga hi Samuel. Salamat han iyo madagmit nga aksyon ngan pag-ataman ha iya samtang nawawara hiya. Dako ini nga bulig para ha amon pamilya."

This incident highlights the Philippine Army's strict adherence to human rights and International Humanitarian Law, ensuring that the safety and welfare of civilians remain a top priority in the conduct of military operations.