Labo: Police and military personnel recovered a New People's Army (NPA) arms cache containing high-powered firearms in Labo, Camarines Norte, the 9th Infantry Division (9ID) reported on Tuesday night.

According to Philippines News Agency, 9ID spokesperson Maj. Frank Roldan stated in an interview on Wednesday that the firearms seized include 26 M14 rifles, ammunition, and M14 and M16 magazines. The recovery operation was initiated following a tip-off from local residents in a remote area of Barangay Exciban. "The information about the area was provided by the residents and confirmed by a former rebel. Our troops went to verify the information, and their efforts paid off when they unearthed the weapons," Roldan explained.

He further mentioned that the NPA is concealing its weapons due to a significant reduction in its membership. "This also proves that there are only a few members of the New People's Army (NPA) left in our area because after a series of confrontations, some surrendered and were arrested," he added.

In a separate interview, 9ID Commander Maj. Gen. Aldwine Almase reassured residents of Bicol of the division's ongoing efforts to eliminate terrorism in the region. "While we achieve success through collaboration with various agencies and the community, we urge those still affected by terrorist groups to come forward and join us in embracing peace," he stated.