Army uncovers NPA arms cache in Negros Oriental

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By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Army’s 11th Infantry Battalion has discovered five high-powered firearms allegedly belonging to the New People’s Army (NPA) in Sitio Purok, Barangay Mantiquil, Siaton, Negros Oriental, marking what the military described as a significant blow to the group’s movement in Negros Island.

According to the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID), the discovery came from a tip-off by a concerned citizen about the location of the hidden weapons.

Seized during the Aug. 8 operation were three M16 assault rifles, two M14 assault rifles, seven M14 magazines, and other war materiel.

Col. Erwin Rommel Lamzon, chief of the 3ID Public Affairs Office, said the find underscores the value of community cooperation in security operations.

Maj. Gen. Michael Samson, 3ID commander, commended the troops for their operational patience, dedication, and commitment to the mission.

“This success will pave the way for improved peace and order in the area, allowing communities to live with greater safety and stability,” Samson said in a statement.

He added that the accomplishment serves as a strong example for other units to maximize the use of intelligence in all aspects of operations to achieve decisive gains toward their objectives.