ILOILO City – The soldiers of the Philippine Army’s 61st Infantry (Hunter) Battalion found a cache of high powered firearms in Sitio Mapa, Barangay Culyat, Valderrama, Antique over the weekend.
Major General Michael Samson, commander of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID), said his men, who were conducting an offensive operation at around 9 a.m. on Saturday, May 17, received information from a former rebel that there were high powered firearms being kept in the area.
Samson said the informant, alias “Boy Negro,” was a former member of the Regional Sentro de Grabidad of Komiteng Rehiyon – Panay of the New People’s Army (NPA) who surrendered to the 61IB on April 1 this year.
Among the recoveries were two M16 rifles, one M14 rifle, two AK-47 rifles, one homemade shotgun, anti-personnel mines, ammunition, and magazines.
The government troops also recovered a National Democratic Front (NDF) flag.
The 3ID commander commended the 61IB troops for their relentless anti-insurgency efforts, particularly in dismantling KR-Panay, which led to the seizure of the arms cache.
“We are grateful for the vital information provided by former rebels whose surrender has transformed their lives, allowing them to become productive citizens and contribute to the government’s peace initiatives. With the support of former rebels and the community, we are optimistic that the decades-long insurgency in Panay is nearing its end,” Samson added.
He further urged the public to continue supporting the government troops by sharing relevant information that could lead to the complete downfall of KR-Panay.
“Your cooperation is crucial in ensuring lasting peace and security in the region. Every piece of information you provide strengthens our efforts in eradicating the threats posed by these insurgents,” Samson said./PN