LANAO DEL SUR, Philippines — Government troops uncovered a cache of firearms fabrication equipment and high-powered war materials during a focused combat clearing and intelligence-driven operation in the province, underscoring persistent security threats posed by remnants of extremist groups in the area.
Brigadier General Yasser R. Bara, commander of the 101st Infantry (Three Red Arrows) Brigade, reported that the operation was carried out on April 11, 2026, in Barangay Pabrica, Marogong—an area previously occupied by members of the Daulah Islamiya–Maute Group.
The mission involved combined elements from the Scout Platoon, Alpha Company, and Bravo Company, alongside intelligence operatives, under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Jerry B. Gaviola, commanding officer of the 64th Infantry (Knights) Battalion.
Improvised Arms Production Site Uncovered
According to military reports, troops discovered what appeared to be a clandestine firearms fabrication site, equipped with industrial machinery capable of manufacturing and assembling weapon components.
Among the recovered unserviceable equipment were a milling machine, two lathe machines, a drill press, a welding machine, a power hacksaw, an anvil, and a jack stand—tools commonly associated with metalworking and weapons assembly.
“This discovery indicates the group’s capability to locally produce or modify firearms, posing a serious threat to security forces and civilian communities,” a military official said.
High-Caliber Components and Explosives Seized
In addition to the machinery, soldiers seized a significant volume of war materials, including 50 pieces of .50 caliber barrels, a propellant cartridge, and multiple components associated with Barrett sniper rifles. These included suppressors, magazines, wooden frames, burners, and optical scopes.
Troops also recovered a 60mm tube and a grenade, raising further concern over the potential for both direct combat and improvised explosive attacks had these materials remained in hostile hands.
Security officials noted that the presence of .50 caliber components—typically used for long-range, high-impact weaponry—suggests preparations for sustained or high-value targeting operations.
Ongoing Clearing Operations
Military units continue to secure the area amid fears that additional weapons or hidden stockpiles may still be concealed within the vicinity. Follow-up clearing and intelligence operations are underway to prevent any attempt by armed groups to reestablish their presence.
The Philippine Army emphasized that the operation forms part of broader efforts to neutralize residual threats in Lanao del Sur and prevent the resurgence of extremist networks in Mindanao.
“This operation demonstrates our continued commitment to dismantling enemy capabilities and ensuring lasting peace in vulnerable communities,” the military said.
Authorities have not reported any armed encounter during the operation, suggesting that the site had been abandoned prior to the troops’ arrival. However, the scale of recovered materials points to an organized effort to rebuild or sustain armed capability in the area.
The military urged local residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity, as security forces intensify their campaign against insurgent and extremist elements in the region.