Police recovered an arms cache of new people's army rebels in esperanza:olice recovered an arms cache of New People's Army rebels in Esperanza, Masbate Sunday evening. In a report on Monday, Lt. Col. Freddie Herry, Force commander of the Masbate 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company, said the arms cache was seized during major internal security operations in Sitio Tugas, Barangay Tawad, which is around 24 kilometers from the Esperanza Municipal Police Station.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lt. Col. Herry emphasized the impact of the recovery on the operational capabilities of the rebels. "This recovery weakens the armed capability of lawless elements in the province. We will continue our security operations and strengthen our partnership with the community to ensure lasting peace and development in Masbate," Herry said.

The recovered items include four long firearms, one short firearm, one grenade launcher, one improvised explosive device (IED), assorted magazines and ammunition, handheld radios, communication equipment, medical supplies, and personal belongings. Herry added the items belonged to the rebels operating in the municipalities of Esperanza, Placer, and Pio V. Corpuz.