Gov't troops recover high-powered firearms in Camarines Norte

By Connie Calipay

LEGAZPI CITY --- Police and military personnel recovered a New People's Army (NPA) arms cache containing high-powered firearms in Labo, Camarines Norte, the 9th Infantry Division (9ID) reported on Tuesday night.

In an interview on Wednesday, 9ID spokesperson Maj. Frank Roldan said the firearms seized include 26 M14 rifles, ammunition, M14 and M16 magazines, following a tip-off from local residents from a remote area of Barangay Exciban.

"The information about the area was provided by the residents and confirmed by a former rebel. Our troops went to verify the information, and their efforts paid off when they unearthed the weapons," he said.

He added that the NPA is hiding its weapons due to the extreme shortage of its members.

"This also proves that there are only a few members of the New People's Army (NPA) left in our area because after a series of confrontations, some surrendered and were arrested," he added.

In a separate interview, 9ID Commander Maj. Gen. Aldwine Almase assured Bicolanos of the division's campaign to eradicate terrorism in the region.

"While we achieve success through collaboration with various agencies and the community, we urge those still affected by terrorist groups to come forward and join us in embracing peace. (PNA)

RECOVERED. Some of the high-powered firearms recovered by government troops in a remote area of Barangay Exciban, Labo, Camarines Norte, on Tuesday (Dec. 16, 2025). A total of 26 firearms were recovered. (Screengrab from 9ID video)