MILITARY authorities in the Bicol region noted the rise of civilian residents who are sending reliable intelligence report about the communist rebels, a military official said.
Lieutenant Colonel Ernesto Cruz, commander of the 42nd Infantry Battalion based in Tigaon town, Camarines Sur, said most of his notable accomplishments are attributed to the invaluable help of the civilian residents in his area of responsibility.
Cruz made the statement following the recovery of a Cal 7.62mm M14 assault rifle and several rounds of live ammunitions from the rebel’s hiding place in Kamuning village, Calabanga town around 11:30 p.m. Tuesday.
The local tipster has accurately described the burial place where the firearm of a notorious New People’s Army (NPA) member was being kept.
Cruz said he sent only four soldiers to unearth the firearm without hurting anyone.
“I am quite grateful that many civilian friends are helping us confront the NPA rebels who are becoming a menace to them. As you can see, I have arrested three rebels without any firefight, and, a few days ago, I have averted the landmine ambush against my soldiers through the help of a local resident.”
The 42nd Infantry Battalion has so far confiscated four high-powered firearms through the effective reporting by the civilians in the province.
Major General Ruperto Pabustan, commander of the 9th Infantry Division, commended the troops for their series of accomplishments in the recent days.
A local tipster was also credited for the recovery of 12 high-powered firearms in Lupi town about a month ago.
“I would like to personally convey my heartfelt appreciation for your relentless efforts to win this campaign by resorting to peaceful means in neutralizing the enemy. Your successful involvement of the local residents must be the model for other units to follow,” Pabustan said in his short message during his field visit to 42 Infantry Battalion headquarters. (VR/Sunnex)