Manila, Feb. 4 -- The local government of Matuguinao, Samar, has strongly condemned the New People's Army (NPA) for killing a soldier tasked to secure the delivery of social services in remote communities.

Mayor Aran Boller said on Tuesday the incident that killed Cpl. Bobby Barocaboc on Feb. 2 in upland San Roque village was a "terroristic act" of the NPA.

"I strongly condemn the terroristic act of the communist terrorist groups (CTGs) in the recent encounter in San Roque, Matuguinao, Samar, which led to the tragic death of Corporal Barocaboc of the Philippine Army. We are deeply saddened that another life was lost because of these CTGs. We assure the Philippine Army of our unwavering support to its goal of attaining peace and security...