Gov’t troops seize high-powered firearms in Bicol

By Connie Calipay / Philippine News Agency

SEIZED. The high-powered firearms and other supplies seized by government troops in an encounter with communist terrorist group members in Mobo, Masbate on Tuesday (Feb.16, 2021). The operation was conducted after authorities received a tip from villagers about the presence of rebels in the area. (Photo courtesy of 9ID, Philippine Army)

LEGAZPI CITY – At least four high-powered firearms were seized by government troops on Tuesday in an operation against the communist terrorist group (CTG) in Bicol.

Capt. John Paul Belleza, the 9th Infantry Division spokesperson, said joint elements from the 2nd Infantry Battalion (2IB) and police received a tip from residents of Barangay Sta. Maria in Mobo, Masbate about the presence of CTG members in the area, prompting the troops to conduct a security operation.

The soldiers encountered at least 15 New People's Army (NPA) members around 6 a.m.

“Gunfight lasted for 15 minutes before the enemies withdrew. Four M-16 rifles were captured from the encounter site,” Belleza said.

Lt. Col. Siegfried Felipe Awichen, battalion commander of 2IB, thanked the residents who reported about the presence of the rebels, leading to the successful operation.

In another recent military operation in Sorsogon, elements of the 22nd Infantry Battalion (22IB) also received information about an alleged CTG hideout in Barangay Calpi in Bulan town.

The troops immediately verified the information and seized an M-16 rifle, two bandoliers, and other CTG supplies inside a nipa hut.

Belleza said Lt. Col. Nelson Mico, battalion commander of 22IB, directed his troops to continue scouring the area to preempt any unlawful activities the CTG is planning to carry out.

The Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB) under Maj. Gen. Henry Robinson Jr., in a statement, lauded the troops for the relentless extensive operations in Bicol that have caused major setbacks on the CTG.

"These scores speak about our ever-persistent fight against communist insurgency… If you will surrender a firearm, you will receive a firearm remuneration which you can use to start a new life. Aside from that, you will receive cash, livelihood, medical and educational assistance. However, the most important benefit of returning to the folds of the law is the attainment of our goal to make Bicol a more peaceful and progressive region," Robinson said.

Last Feb. 1, four CTG members were killed, one was apprehended and 10 high-powered firearms were seized in an armed encounter in Garchitorena, Camarines Sur. (PNA)