ARMY troopers recovered arms caches containing high-powered firearms and landmines in Gen MacArthur, Eastern Samar following the surrender of an alleged member of the New People’s Army (NPA).
Alias Roel, identified as a political instructor and assistant squad leader of NPA’s guerilla unit operating in the southern parts of Eastern Samar, voluntarily surrendered to the Philippine Army’s 78th Infantry Battalion based in Barangay Lalawigan, Borongan City recently.
He also turned over one 5.56-millimeter M16A1 rifle, magazines, and ammunition.
During his surrender, the alleged NPA member revealed the location of arms caches in the hinterland barangays of Gen MacArthur.
Army troopers recovered five M16 rifles, two M14 rifles, and six improvised explosive device main charge components, according to Captain Arnold Arias, civil-military operations officer.
In a statement, Lieutenant Colonel Alvior, commanding officer of 78th Infantry Battalion, assured they “will provide necessary interventions” for the rebel surrenderee under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.
Eastern Visayas, particularly the Samar Island, has remained a hotbed of insurgency with the continued presence of the NPA. (SunStar Philippines)