NPA arms cache uncovered in Burias

By Luis Eli San Jose PILI, Camarines Sur – Operating troops from 2nd Infantry Battalion discovered an abandoned rebel camp with arms cache in Barangay Mabiton, Claveria, Masbate last Tuesday, August 1. The arms cache was uncovered based on the information received by the unit about the presence of an armed group under Rico Nuñez aka Aaron of PYG, KP4, Bicol Regional Party Committee. Seized from the enemy encampment were: one carbine rifle, one shotgun, one improvised shotgun, two improvised explosives device (IED) weighting more than 15 kilograms each, and subversive documents with high intel value. The firearms and explosives will be turned over to the authorities for proper documentation and disposition. In the statement from Joint Task Force Bicolandia under Maj. Gen. Jesus A Manangquil Jr, the rebels are now on the run and have no choice but to hide their firearms to cover themselves as civilians. With the recent seizure of these firearms and IEDs, the rebels’ capability would definitely be depleted and the atrocities that they are planning will be prevented, Army sources said. Meanwhile, the MGen. Manangquil once again called upon the remaining NPA members to lay down their arms and abandon the armed struggle so that peace and development in the region will be attained. He added that the use of violence to effect change is not the best solution to address societal issues. Further, he encouraged the NPAs to avail of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) being offered by our government and for the rebels to participate in developmental initiatives that will redound to positive change in our society.