TACLOBAN CITY, May 16 -- A soldier died while another was injured in a recent clash between government forces and New People's Army (NPA) combatants in San Jorge, Samar, the Philippine Army reported on Thursday.

Killed during the 45-minute firefight in remote Gayondato village on May 14, was Corporal Reycon Remedio, a native of Carigara, Leyte, who was hit on the left side of his head.

Soldiers of the 3rd Infantry Battalion clashed with remnants of the NPA sub-regional committee, the Eastern Visayas regional party committee.

The military has intensified its operations in the area after residents reported sightings of armed rebels.

"Responding to the information, the troops moved to drive away the armed group. However, as they approach...