Following the voluntary surrender of five members of a Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) on 18 and 22 June, the 65th Infantry Stalwart Battalion discovered war materiel during separate operations in Masbate.

According tot the 65IB, four M16 rifle magazines and 139 5.56mm ammunition were discovered at the borders of Cataingan and Palanas on 25 June, while an ammo cache was also discovered in the town of Placer on 27 June.

In the latest operation that was conducted after receiving intel from a responsible citizen, the troops recovered 69 magazines of an M16 rifle, and 367 serviceable bullets with 5.56mm caliber hidden inside two plastic buckets.

These items immediately underwent proper documentation and custody of the 65IB and are being prepared for turnover to proper authorities.

According to the 65IB, the consecutive voluntary surrender and the discoveries of war materiel show the weakening of armed groups, as well as the increasing support for the masses in the campaign for lasting peace in Masbate.