TACLOBAN CITY – Former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) tipped off the location of an arms cache in the hinterlands of Barangay Mahilum, Hindang, Leyte on Saturday, January 11, 2025 that contained an M60 machine gun, an M16 rifle, and an M14 rifle.
The discovery was made during joint operations conducted by the 14th Infantry “Avenger” Battalion, the 93rd Infantry “Bantay Kapayapaan” Battalion, and the 82nd Military Intelligence Company. The said operations are part of intensified efforts of the 802nd Infantry Brigade (802IBde) of the 8th Infantry Division to dismantle the dwindling forces of the NPA in the region.
Lieutenant Colonel Edgar Gabia INF (GSC) PA, Commander of the 14IB, attributed the discovery to the crucial information provided by surrendered former rebels from the remnants of the Island Commitee LEVOX. It is also part of the implementation of the 802nd Brigade’s Project LEVOX (Living a Life that Embraces peace and development thru Values and reconciliation that will Overcome fear, hatred and eXpand the culture of peace to each one of us).
He also credited the Brigade’s Friends Rescued Engagement through their Families (FReE Families) program, which fosters sustained engagement with the families and relatives of active NPA members.
Brigadier General Noel Vestuir, Commander of the 802nd IB, commended the troops for gaining the trust and cooperation of former NPA members, local government units, and the community, transforming them into valuable partners in the pursuit of peace in the region.
“To the government troops, this is a positive sign for the start of the year 2025, as we will continue to dedicate our utmost service to attain peace and development in our area of responsibility,” Brig. Gen. Vestuir said.
Brig. Gen. Vestuir thanked former members of IC LEVOX for their important information that helped make the operations successful, adding, “They are more knowledgeable on the human and physical terrain in the areas they used to hide and they are the best people that could help us in our efforts to convince their former comrades to join them in the mainstream of our society.” (By Marie Tonette Marticio / EV Mail JAN. 13-19, 2025 issue)