TACLOBAN CITY, Nov. 25 -- Over 100 residents from two upland villages in Gandara, Samar, remained in evacuation centers on Tuesday after leaving their homes over the weekend following a series of clashes between government troops and members of the New People's Army (NPA).

Fear of spillover prompted villages near Barangay Geregangan in Gandara town to seek safety. Data from the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) showed that 29 families, or 88 individuals, were assisted.

In Barangay Marcos, eight families, or 24 individuals, sought refuge at the Barangay Minda Covered Court. At least 21 families, or 64 individuals, from Barangay San Miguel were also accommodated by local authorities.

To coordinate response efforts, ...