VALENCIA CITY, Bukidnon — Security forces under the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10 (RMFB-10) recovered an arms cache and improvised explosive device (IED) components during a joint internal security operation in the forested hinterland of Barangay Concepcion here on January 9, 2026, authorities reported.
The operation, conducted at around 12:20 p.m., was spearheaded by the 1003rd Maneuver Company of RMFB-10 with support from the 1004th Maneuver Company, the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company of Bukidnon, the Bukidnon Provincial Explosives and Canine Unit, and the 89th Infantry Battalion of the 10th Infantry Division, Philippine Army. The troops were guided by a surrendered informant who provided crucial intelligence on the location of the hidden war materials.
Recovered from the site were one M16 rifle with a black sling bearing signs of corrosion and a defaced serial number, 44 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, three short steel magazines for M16 rifles, and two steel containers filled with IED components.
Following the discovery, a Quick Reaction Team was immediately deployed to secure the area and assist in the safe extraction of the recovered items. Operating units continued to scour the vicinity to ensure that no additional weapons or explosives were concealed in the area.
Police Regional Office 10 (PRO-10) Regional Director PBGen Christopher N. Abrahano commended the operating troops for their vigilance and dedication in neutralizing threats posed by lawless elements.
“The successful recovery of these war materials highlights the effectiveness of our sustained internal security operations and the importance of close collaboration between police and military units in Bukidnon,” Abrahano said.
Authorities also underscored the vital role of community cooperation in the operation, noting that the informant’s assistance reflects growing public trust in security forces and the shared commitment to peace and safety.
“This accomplishment once again proves that community engagement is key in sustaining peace and security efforts in the province,” PRO-10 said in a statement.
The recovery forms part of the continuing peace and security initiatives of PRO-10 in line with the focused agenda of Acting Philippine National Police Chief PLtGen Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. and under the guidance of PBGen Abrahano.
Security forces assured the public that operations against armed groups and the recovery of loose firearms and explosives will continue to prevent violence and maintain stability in Bukidnon and the rest of Northern Mindanao.