Government troops recovered several firearms allegedly owned by the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in the hinterlands of Samar following information provided by local residents and former rebels.
Joint elements of the Army’s 87th Infantry Battalion and the 804th Maneuver Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 8 found the arms cache on May 29 in Sitio Galutan, Barangay Can-aponte, San Jose de Buan, Samar.
Recovered from the area were two AK-47 assault rifles with two magazines, two M16A1 rifles, and one M203 grenade launcher.
Authorities said the discovery reflected the continuing decline of the CTG’s armed capability in Samar, as sustained security operations and shrinking community support have limited the group’s movement and logistical network.
The military said insurgents have increasingly been forced to hide or abandon weapons as they lose access to safe areas and local support.
The recovery also prevented the firearms from being used in possible attacks, extortion activities, or efforts to disrupt development projects in local communities.
Security officials credited the operation to information voluntarily given by former rebels and concerned residents, saying community cooperation remains vital in locating hidden weapons and preventing violence.
The military said more communities in Samar have rejected insurgent presence by refusing to provide sanctuary, supplies, recruits, and information to armed groups.
Authorities said improved security has allowed local governments and partner agencies to carry out infrastructure, livelihood, education, health, and other development programs with less disruption.
The 8th Infantry Division said it would continue working with law enforcement units, local governments, national agencies, former rebels, and residents to sustain peace and development gains in Eastern Visayas.
It also urged remaining CTG members to surrender and avail themselves of government reintegration programs.