High-Powered NPA Weapons Cache Discovered in Labo, Camarines Norte

Philippine security forces have uncovered a cache of high-powered firearms allegedly belonging to the New People’s Army (NPA) during a joint military and police operation in a remote area of Labo town in Camarines Norte province, authorities said.

The operation was led by the Philippine Army’s 16th Infantry Battalion under the 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division, in coordination with the 42nd Infantry Battalion of the 9th Infantry “Spearhead” Division. Police units involved included the Camarines Norte 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company and the 91st Special Action Company of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

According to the military, the operation was carried out after receiving credible intelligence from a civilian informant who helped pinpoint the exact location of the weapons cache. Troops recovered 26 M14 rifles, 2,245 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, 15 M14 magazines, and 41 M16 magazines from the site.

Authorities described the seized firearms as a serious threat to public safety and to government security forces operating in the area. The successful recovery, they said, has significantly reduced the armed capability of communist rebels in the province.

A military official acknowledged that the operation was challenging due to harsh weather conditions and the rugged, mountainous terrain of parts of Labo. Despite these difficulties, the official praised the determination and coordination of soldiers and police personnel, as well as the cooperation of local residents, which proved crucial to the mission’s success.

Security officials emphasized that the operation highlights the importance of community support in counterinsurgency efforts and in maintaining peace and order in conflict-affected areas.

“When the people and government forces work together, lasting peace becomes achievable,” the military said in a statement.

The New People’s Army is the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines and has been engaged in a decades-long insurgency against the government.