THE 403RD Infantry Brigade unearthed a cache of high-powered firearms belonging to remnants of the Communist Terrorist Group in Sitio Ananaso, Barangay Kalabugao, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon, on March 15.
The 1st Special Forces Battalion (1SFB), a subordinate unit of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, led the operation, triggered by a tip from a former rebel supporter, who guided soldiers to the concealed site.
Among the weapons recovered were a 5.56mm Elisco M16A1 rifle with a defaced serial number and a 5.56mm Elisco M653 carbine (Serial No. RP254466).
Military officials confirmed that both firearms were fully serviceable when found.
Brigadier General Seigfred C. Tubalado, commander of the 403rd Brigade, attributed the success to a shifting tide in community loyalty.
“The success of this operation underscores the crucial role of community support and the cooperation of former CTG-affiliated individuals who have chosen to return to the fold of the law,” Tubalado said.
The recovered firearms have been transported to the 1st Special Forces Battalion (SFBN) Headquarters for proper disposition and ballistic tracing.
