ORMOC CITY – Government forces uncovered an arms cache belonging to the New People’s Army (NPA) in the remote area of Barangay Mahilum, Inopacan, Leyte early morning of Saturday, January 11, 2025.
In todays’ report posted by the 802 Infantry Brigade based here, it said the successful operation was the result of a coordinated effort by the 14th Infantry “Avenger” Battalion, 93rd Infantry “Bantay Kapayapaan” Battalion, and the 82nd Military Intelligence Company, as part of the ongoing campaign to dismantle the weakening NPA presence in the region.
The cache contained significant military equipment, including one (1) M60 machine gun, one (1) M16 rifle, and one (1) M14 rifle. The discovery is part of intensified operations targeting the remnants of the Island Committee LEVOX, an NPA faction still active in the area.
The breakthrough followed continuous consultations and dialogues with former NPA rebels, as well as intelligence gathered through the 802nd Infantry Brigade’s (802IBde) Project LEVOX. This initiative promotes peace and development while fostering reconciliation with former insurgents.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Edgar A. Gabia INF (GSC) PA, Commander of the 14th Infantry Battalion, the information from former rebels, who shared intelligence on the whereabouts of remaining NPA members, played a key role in the success of the operation.
“These former rebels, who once belonged to the Island Committee LEVOX, have become integral partners in our operations,” said Lt. Col. Gabia.
“Through programs like Project LEVOX and our Friends Rescued Engagement through their Families (FReE Families), we are creating an environment of trust and cooperation, which is crucial for lasting peace.”
Brigadier General Noel A. Vestuir, Commander of the 802nd Infantry Brigade, praised the troops for their successful collaboration with former NPA members, local government units, and the broader community.
“This marks a positive start to 2025,” said Brig. Gen. Vestuir. “We remain committed to serving the people, ensuring peace, and securing the development of the region.”
Brig. Gen. Vestuir also thanked the former NPA members for their crucial role in providing information that led to the discovery of the arms cache.
“Their willingness to help the government is a testament to their commitment to peace,” he said.
“This cooperation helps us isolate the remaining NPA forces from our communities and contributes to a safer environment for everyone.”
He reiterated his call to the remaining members of the NPA to abandon the armed struggle and take advantage of the government’s amnesty program.
“I urge the remaining members of the Island Committee LEVOX to come forward and join their former comrades in embracing a peaceful life with their families. The opportunity for reintegration into society is now,” Brig. Gen. Vestuir concluded.
The cooperation of local residents and the families of former rebels remains a crucial element in ensuring the long-term peace and security of Inopacan and the surrounding areas. | via Ricky Bautista with reports from 802IB
