Claveria, Misamis Oriental – The 58th Infantry “Dimalulupig” Battalion (58IB), operating under the 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade, unearthed an arms cache belonging to the Sub-Regional Sentro de Grabidad (SRSDG) Eagles of the Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) 1, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC), on January 18, 2025, in Balingasag, Misamis Oriental.
The discovery was made possible through crucial information provided by a member of the Indigenous Peoples (IP) community in the area. The cache included one AK-47 rifle and an improvised explosive device (IED), marking a significant victory in the ongoing campaign for peace and development in Misamis Oriental.
The newly formed “Balatukan Hunters” of Charlie Company, 58IB, carried out the operation. The team remains onsite to conduct further assessments and implement security measures to ensure the area’s safety.
In a statement, Lieutenant Colonel Leoncito I. Grezula Jr., Commanding Officer of the 58IB, emphasized the critical role of the Indigenous Peoples in the operation, highlighting their steadfast support for peace. The Higaonon Tribe leaders had recently declared the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) as persona non grata, signaling strong community resistance against the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).
“This successful operation reflects the sincere cooperation of the IP community in ending the influence of CTGs in the region,” said Lt. Col. Grezula Jr. “The discovery denies these groups the means to conduct terroristic activities and spread fear among our communities.”
Lt. Col. Grezula Jr. praised the troops for their determination to dismantle the remnants of the CPP-NPA in the area. He reiterated the importance of collaboration between the IP community, local residents, and stakeholders in achieving the unit’s mission to ensure peace and development in Misamis Oriental.
The operation further underscores the significance of community involvement in the fight against insurgency, providing hope for sustained security and stability in the region.