A tip-off from concerned citizens led government troops to an arms cache hidden by red groups in Labo, Camarines Norte, on Friday.
According to reports from the 201st Infantry Brigade, soldiers from the 16th Infantry Battalion, along with their police counterparts, swiftly acted on information provided by concerned villagers about the location of a terrorist arms cache in Barangay Dumagmang.
The troops successfully unearthed two M16A1 rifles, ten magazines, 131 rounds of live ammunition, and two bandoliers.
This recovery contributed to a series of successful military operations across the province.
On November 26, soldiers recovered war materiel in Barangay Malatap. Additionally, on November 30, an encounter between government forces and the terrorist New People’s Army (NPA) resulted in the seizure of another high-powered firearm in Barangay Dumagmag.
Maj. Gen. Cerilo Balaoro Jr., Commander of the 2nd Infantry (Jungle Fighter) Division (2ID), attributed this accomplishment to the growing trust and cooperation of the local community.
He emphasized the significance of the people’s active role in rejecting the NPA’s influence and supporting government forces in promoting peace and development.
“This success reflects the community’s unwavering commitment to peace and rejection of the NPA’s oppressive tactics,” said Maj. Gen. Balaoro.
“Their cooperation serves as a powerful message that the people stand united against violence and terror perpetrated by the NPA,” he concluded.