By Jennifer P. Rendon
A rifle and various ammunition were recovered in the hinterland area of Libacao, Aklan, a municipality that borders the provinces of Capiz and Iloilo.
The Philippine Army’s 82nd Infantry (Bantay Laya) Battalion dug up the concealed arms cache on March 14.
Seized were an M1 Garand rifle; four aluminum magazines with 30-round capacity for 5.56mm ammunition; three aluminum magazines with 20-round capacity for 5.56mm ammunition; 141 rounds of 7.62mm ball ammunition; 12 rounds of .30 caliber carbine ammunition; four rounds of caliber .30 M2 ball ammunition; and two rounds of 40mm high-explosive ammunition.
The M1 Garand is a semiautomatic rifle originally designed for the U.S. military during World War II that has since been widely circulated among insurgent groups in the Philippines, often recovered in arms caches in rural and hinterland areas.
In a statement, the 3rd Infantry Division said the arms cache is believed to have been buried by remnants of the New People’s Army’s Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay.
The Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army has maintained an armed insurgency in the Philippines since 1969, making it one of the longest-running communist rebellions in Asia. The Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay is the NPA’s regional committee overseeing operations across Panay Island.
The 3rd Infantry Division said the operation was made possible through valuable information provided by local residents and the assistance of former rebels, whose cooperation enabled troops to pinpoint the concealed location.
Maj. Gen. Michael Samson, 3rd Infantry Division commander, commended the troops and the community for their cooperation, stressing that the capture of the arms cache further weakens the armed capability of the communist terrorist group in Panay.
“This successful operation highlights the importance of unity between our soldiers and the people. The seizure of this war materiel is a clear indication that the CTG’s strength continues to dwindle,” he said.
He also assured that the Philippine Army remains committed to protecting communities and ensuring lasting peace in Panay.
