Military uncovers rebel arms cache in South Cotabato

Government forces uncovered a cache containing high-powered firearms and components for improvised explosive devices buried by communist rebels in T'boli, South Cotabato, on Saturday.

The cache included three M16 rifles and materials for IEDs, which were reportedly owned by the New People's Army (NPA) Regional Sentro de Grabidad-Far South Mindanao Region.

Soldiers from the 37th and 105th Infantry Battalions found the arms with assistance from former NPA rebels who had surrendered to military authorities months ago.

Major Gen. Donald M. Gumiran, commander of the Army's 6th Infantry Division (ID), highlighted that the recovery operation was conducted in a secluded area in Barangay Laconon, contributing to the virtual clearance of NPA presence in T'boli.

Brig. Gen. Michael A. Santos, commander of the 603rd Infantry Brigade, emphasized community support for anti-rebel efforts and assured residents that the military would continue its mandate to protect them.