Military in S. Leyte towns retrieve cache of firearms allegedly owned by NPA

Southern Leyte map

TACLOBAN CITY — Government forces in two Southern Leyte towns on Sunday, March 20, found several firearms and ammunition believed to be owned by members of the New People’s Army (NPA).

Among those recovered were an AK47 rifle; two magazines; a M653 rifle; two calibers of .45 pistols; 14 rounds of 5.56 mm ball cartridge ammunition; and three M16 magazines in Barangay Old Kauswagan, Saint Bernard town, Southern Leyte province.

Soldiers also found an M16 rifle and two M16 long magazines at the vicinity of Sitio Tabjon, Barangay Calag-itan, Hinunangan town.

Col. Noel Vestuir, the commanding officer of the 802nd Infantry Brigade which is based in Ormoc City, Leyte, said their recovery of these firearms was due to the information relayed to them by former rebels, alias “Roc” and alias “Jhon.”

Both were alleged members of Squad 1, P1, SRC “LEVOX”, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee, the military said.

Vestuir urged those still in the rebel movement to surrender and stop fighting the government.

“We assure you of your safety. You will be treated humanely and the government will help you start a peaceful life along with your families,” he said.

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