18 NPA rebels killed in Eastern Samar clash

Eighteen suspected New People's Army rebels were killed following a clash with government security forces in Dolores, Eastern Samar on Monday, the Philippine military confirmed.

Armed Forces spokesman Colonel Ramon Zagala said no casualties were reported on the government side.

Zagala added that 30 high-powered firearms were seized from the NPA rebels.

The Army's 8th Infantry Division said the clash took place in the vicinity of Barangay Osmeña Monday morning.

Zagala also explained that Joint Task Force Storm conducted a joint ground, air, and sea operation against the rebels after receiving information on a NPA hideout where explosives were manufactured.

The AFP leadership commended the troops involved in the encounter. — DVM/RSJ, GMA News