SOLDIERS of the 82nd Infantry (Bantay Laya) Battalion (82IB) recovered an arms cache belonging to the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Sitio Itabag, Barangay Dalagsaan, Libacao, Aklan, following a tip from concerned residents during a government-led Serbisyo Caravan, on Tuesday, July 1, 2025.
Major General Michael Samson, commander of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division (3ID), praised the battalion’s efforts, saying, “The successful seizure of the CTG’s arms cache by the troops of the 82nd Infantry Battalion stands as a testament to our unwavering resolve to bring the decades-long insurgency in Western Visayas to its final end. This significant achievement not only weakens the operational capability of the NPA remnants but also prevents any attempts to regroup, recover, or utilize these war materials for illicit activities.”
Troops from the 82IB discovered the arms cache around 9 a.m. while conducting a combat operation in the hinterlands of Libacao. Seized during the operation were one M16A1 rifle, several magazines, more than 160 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, TNT explosives, a CTG tarpaulin, 30 meters of electrical wire, and other war paraphernalia.
Authorities said the recovery demonstrates the effectiveness of the whole-of-nation and whole-of-government approach to ending local communist armed conflict. The battalion also reported an encouraging shift in the attitude of residents from fear to empowerment, citing their growing cooperation in security and peace-building efforts.
The 82IB forms part of the Philippine Army’s 3ID, which leads internal security operations in Western Visayas. It operates alongside the 12th Infantry (Lick ‘Em) Battalion based in Calinog, Iloilo, under Lieutenant Colonel Vicel Jan Garsuta, and the 61st Infantry (Hunter) Battalion stationed in Miagao, Iloilo, headed by Lieutenant Colonel Arturo Balgos Jr.
Samson called on Aklanons to sustain their support for government forces to ensure the lasting peace and development of their communities. “Your active support and cooperation are vital in building resilient communities and fostering development. Safeguarding peace and prosperity is everyone's responsibility,” he said.
Military officials reiterated their commitment to continuous combat operations and community engagements to prevent the communist New People's Army (NPA) or CTG from regaining strength in Aklan and other parts of Western Visayas. (Leo Solinap/SunStar Philippines)