TROOPS from the Philippine Army’s 12th Infantry (Lick 'Em) Battalion and the Philippine National Police’s 62nd Special Action Company of the 6th Special Action Battalion seized an abandoned communist New People's Army (NPA) hideout and an arms cache during combat operations in Sitio Naatip, Barangay Lahug, Tapaz town, Capiz around 2:30 p.m. on June 16, 2025.
Major General Michael Samson, commander of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division, said, “The abandoned hideout and arms cache strongly suggest the dwindling strength of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) remnants in Tapaz. Relentless military operations and the vigilance of the Tapaznons have kept them on the run, abandoning the war items they can no longer carry."
Samson emphasized the commitment to neutralizing remaining NPAs and achieving their downfall, a crucial step towards lasting peace and progress in Tapaz and Western Visayas.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and support government efforts to build a safer, more prosperous community for future generations.
During the joint Army and police operation, troops discovered a temporary NPA or CTG encampment containing various items such as tents, Communist Party of the Philippines and Bagong Hukbong Bayan flags, backpacks, a hammock, a power bank, medical paraphernalia, and other personal belongings.
Further clearing operations led to the discovery of a nearby arms cache, around 200 meters from the hideout, which contained an M16 rifle, a long magazine, and live ammunition.
The Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6) and the 3ID have credited this latest success to the intensified operations in the area and the active cooperation of residents.
The military believes the recent discoveries indicate the growing weakness of NPA forces in the region as a result of sustained government pressure. (Leo Solinap/SunStar Philippines)