SAN JORGE, Samar — Government troops uncovered a cache of high-powered firearms and explosives believed to belong to the New People’s Army (NPA) in the remote hinterlands of Barangay Puhagan, San Jorge, Samar on October 18, 2025.
Soldiers from the 3rd Infantry (Regardless of What) Battalion, under the operational control of the 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division, discovered the hidden cache following reports from concerned residents in the area.
Recovered from the site were an M16 rifle, M1903 and M1917 rifles, an M76 rifle grenade, an improvised explosive device (IED), two improvised hand grenades, and several rounds of ammunition.
The arms are believed to have been stockpiled by members of Squad 2, Yakal Platoon, Sub-Regional Committee “Browser” of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee.
Lieutenant Colonel Marx Luther Rosario, Acting Commander of the 3IB, credited the success of the operation to the vigilance and cooperation of the local community.
“The support of the residents shows a strong desire for peace and a clear rejection of the violence and fear that the NPA has long brought to their communities,” Lt. Col. Rosario said.
Brigadier General Arlino L. Sendaydiego, Commander of the 801st Infantry (Bantay at Gabay) Brigade, echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of maintaining strong ties with local residents.
“Each successful operation is proof that the people no longer buy into the lies and deception of the enemy. The rejection of the NPA’s outdated ideology is growing stronger, thanks to the trust and collaboration we’ve built with our communities,” Brig. Gen. Sendaydiego said.
Major General Adonis Ariel Orio, Commander of the 8th Infantry Division, emphasized that peace and progress can only be achieved through unity and shared responsibility.
“Ending insurgency isn’t the sole job of the military—it’s something we all have to work on together. Lasting peace requires everyone’s support. With continued cooperation, we can finally put a stop to armed conflict and bring real development to our communities,” said Maj. Gen. Orio.
The 8ID continues to intensify its peace and security efforts across Eastern Visayas and again urged remaining NPA members to lay down their arms and avail themselves of government reintegration programs designed to support their return to civilian life.
