Military finds arms caches in Surigao Sur, following recent surrender
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur (PIA) -- In a major breakthrough in anti-insurgency efforts, troops from the 75th Infantry Battalion (75IB), alongside the 3rd Special Forces Battalion under the operational control of the 401st Infantry Brigade, uncovered two arms caches at Sitio Panukmoan, Barangay Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur on November 8 and 9, 2024.
The caches were discovered with the crucial intelligence provided by former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA). The seized stockpile contained a formidable arsenal, including a .50 caliber sniper rifle, a 60mm mortar, a .30 caliber Browning machine gun, numerous magazines, and live ammunition rounds.
According to Brigadier General Francisco F. Lorenzo Jr., Commander of the 401st Brigade, the weapons were likely intended for use in insurgent operations targeting vulnerable communities in the area.
"This discovery is a significant outcome following the recent surrender of CPP-NPA terrorists who provided us with the information that led to these caches," said BGen. Lorenzo.
Accordingly, it highlighted the success of the army’s intensified efforts, which began in September, resulting in multiple arrests and surrenders. The seized weapons are reportedly safely in the custody of the Philippine Army, reducing the capability of the CPP-NPA to carry out atrocities against the communities within their area of responsibility (AOR).
Earlier, on November 7, three former members of the Sub-Regional Sentro De Gravidad (SRSDG) Southland and the Regional Sentro De Gravidad (RSDG) from the Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC) surrendered to the 75IB. One of the surrenderers, a former political guide, revealed the location of one of the arms caches. Another arms cache was located following intelligence from a former political guide who had surrendered to the 75IB in September.
The success marked an important step in securing peace in Surigao del Sur and neighboring areas, where military efforts, combined with community support and collaboration from former insurgents, continue to build momentum toward regional stability.
Meanwhile, a total of 91 former rebels (FRs) were recently presented during a reintegration ceremony in Tandag City. According to official data, the Philippine National Police (PNP) presented 35 FRs, the 36th Infantry Battalion (36IB) introduced 30 FRs, the 75th Infantry Battalion (75IB) brought forward 18 FRs, the 3rd Special Forces Battalion presented 6 FRs, and the 29th Infantry Battalion (29IB) contributed 2 FRs. (Photo courtesy of 4ID, PA/NGPB, PIA-Surigao del Sur)
