CAMP DOWNES, Ormoc City — An arms cache of high-powered firearms was recovered in a military operation in the hinterlands of Barangay Mahilum, Hindang, Leyte last Saturday morning.

802nd Infantry Brigade commander Brigadier General Noel Vestuir disclosed that the arms cache, consisting of one M60 machine gun, one M16 rifle and one M14 rifle, was discovered during a joint operation of the 14th Infantry “Avenger” Battalion, 93rd Infantry “Bantay Kapayapaan” Battalion, and 82nd Military Intelligence Company.

“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,” Vestuir said.

The operation is part of the intensified campaign to dismantle the dwindling NPA forces in the region.

Vestuir cited that the discovery of high-powered firearms was the result of continuous dialogue with former rebels and part of the ongoing operations targeting the remnants of Island Committee LEVOX, which operates in the area.

“The recovery of these war materiels is a testament to the commitment of the former members of IC LEVOX in helping the government to attain peace, by ensuring the safety and security of our people and isolating the remnants of the NPAs from our communities,” Vestuir said.

The 802nd Infantry Brigade (802IBde) of the 8th Infantry Division has been leading efforts to weaken the remaining NPA elements in Leyte.

Meantime, 14IB commander Lieutenant Colonel Edgar Gabia, commander of the 14IB, said surrendered former rebels from the remnants of Island Committee LEVOX provided crucial information that led to the discovery of the arms cache.