53rd IB discovers Communist-NPA terrorists’ Arms Cache

True to its commitment to protect the people and finally end communist insurgency and terrorism in Siayan, ZDN,  elements of Task Unit “KAISER” composed of one (1) section of 53rd Infantry (MATAPAT) Battalion discovered an arms cache while conducting combat operations in Sitio Lacnapan, Barangay Pange, Siayan, Zamboanga del Norte province last August 30, 2020.

The discovered arms cache contained one (1) M16 rifle with defaced serial number, two (2) rounds (ammo) for .50-caliber rifle, one (1) empty magazine of M16 assault rifle, one (1) empty magazine of AK47 assault rifle, and one (1) ammo for Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG).

The discovery was made possible by the revelation of a newly-surrendered Former Rebel (FR) after a diligent custodial debriefing.

In a statement, 53rd IB Commander Lt. Col. Jo-ar Herrera said that the cooperation and revelations of FRs are proof and manifestation that they, too, want this insurgency and terrorism to end.

“We are in the end game now. More and more rebels surrender because aside from wanting to change, lead peaceful lives, and start anew, they, too, know that the CTGs’ days are already numbered ,” said Lt. Col. Herrera.

Meanwhile, Army’s 102nd Infantry Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Leonel Nicolas said that the Brigade will not stop until its mission is accomplished.

“We will not stop until the people [of Siayan] are safe from the Communist-Terrorist Groups’ (CTGs’) atrocities and terroristic activities,” said Brig. Gen. Nicolas.

In mid-August this year, two (2) Community Support Program (CSP) teams were also deployed in Barangays Pange and Macasing of Siayan town to help address the issues exploited by the NPA terrorists in the area.