TACLOBAN CITY – A family member of a member of the New People’s Army (NPA) who was killed in an encounter in Brgy. Tinag-an, Albuera, Leyte tipped off a hidden firearms cache in the hinterlands of Sitio Bonote, Barangay Rizal, Kananga, Leyte, recently.
The operation led to the discovery of an M16 assault rifle, caliber 30 M1 Garand, Interdynamic KG-9 Pistol, 5 magazines, and 41 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition.
In February, a member of the dismantled Platoon 2 of Island Committee Levox identified as Crispin Agunos alias “Maniwang” was killed in an encounter.
Lieutenant Colonel Charlie Saclot, Commanding officer of 93IB, said the successful implementation of the FReE Families Program played a vital role in the success of said intelligence operation.
The FReE Families program is spearheaded by the Local Chief Executives from the provincial, down to the municipal and barangay level and in collaboration with the loved ones and families of the misdirected NPAs. He also thanked the concerned citizens and stakeholders for showing bravery and cooperation in sustaining peace in their area of operations.
Brigadier General Noel Vestuir, commander of 802nd Infantry Brigade, commended the troops for their persistence in maintaining peace and security in the islands of Leyte and Biliran. He also expressed his gratitude for the civilians’ continued efforts to work together to promote sustainable peace and development in his area of responsibility.
“We must not miss this opportunity to actively participate in our shared responsibility for lasting peace and development,” Vestuir urged. By Marie Tonette Marticio (EV Mail October 7-13, 2024 issue)
