Surigao del sur: Army troopers from the 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB) recovered firearms and ammunition hidden by remnants of the New People's Army (NPA) during an operation Thursday in Barangay Lobo, Cantilan, Surigao del Sur. The cache included an M14 rifle, an M1 Garand rifle, five 20-round detachable box magazines, 32 rounds of .30-caliber ammunition, and 89 rounds of 7.62x51 mm ammunition.
According to Philippines News Agency, 30IB commander Lt. Col. Rey Vergel Annogui emphasized that the recovery further weakens the capability of NPA remnants to conduct armed activities. He highlighted that the seizure also helps prevent the resurgence of armed conflict in previously affected communities in Cantilan and across Surigao del Sur.
"This successful recovery demonstrates our troops' unwavering commitment to protecting communities and sustaining the gains we have achieved in our areas of responsibility," Annogui stated. He added that 30IB will continue efforts to keep NPA weapons from being used to threaten residents and disrupt peace in the province.
"We also call on our communities to remain vigilant and continue working with us in building a safer, more peaceful, and progressive Surigao," Annogui added.
