GOVERNMENT troops have seized five high-powered firearms belonging to the New People’s Army (NPA), in Valderama town in Antique, the military reported yesterday.
The Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (ID) said the firearms were recovered based on information provided by an NPA rebel, identified as alias Boy Negro, who surrendered last month.
Col. Erwin Rommel Lamzon, 3rd ID spokesman, said the five rifles — two M16, two AK-47, and one M14 – were recovered in Sitio Mapa, Barangay Culyat on Saturday by troops from the Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion (IB).
Also recovered were a home-made shotgun, anti-personnel mines, ammunition, magazines, and a flag of the National Democratic Front.
Maj. Gen. Michael Samson, 3rd ID commander, commended the 61st IB for its relentless anti-insurgency efforts, leading to the recovery of the war materiel.
“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,” said Samson.
“With the support of former rebels and the community, we are optimistic that the decades-long insurgency in Panay is nearing its end,” he also said.
Samson urged the public to continue providing information that could lead to the “complete downfall” of the communist rebels in the region.
“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,” said Samson.
