T’boli, South Cotabato | June 14, 2025 — Government troops recovered an arms cache believed to belong to the Platoon Gilbeys, Regional Sentro de Grabidad (RSDG) of the Far South Mindanao Region (FSMR), in separate operations conducted on June 12 and 14 in Barangay Laconon, T’boli, South Cotabato.
The discovery was made possible through joint intelligence operations by the 37th Infantry (Conqueror) Battalion and the 105th Infantry (Saifullah) Battalion in Sitio Ellaw and Sitio Basag. Recovered from the cache were three M16 rifles, believed to be part of the group’s stockpile for insurgent operations in the area.
Military officials confirmed that the successful operation was largely due to the cooperation of former rebels who provided crucial information regarding the location of the hidden firearms.
“This recent discovery of an arms cache is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our troops and the effectiveness of our intelligence operations,” said Lieutenant Colonel Christopherson M. Capuyan, Commanding Officer of the 37th Infantry Battalion.
Lieutenant Colonel Erikzen C. Dacoco, Commanding Officer of the 105th Infantry Battalion, also underscored the importance of community cooperation. “The joint efforts that led to the discovery of these M16 rifles are the direct result of the courageous decision of former rebels to cooperate with government forces,” he said.
Brigadier General Michael A. Santos, Commander of the 603rd Infantry (Persuader) Brigade, lauded the swift actions of the involved units. “Every firearm taken out of the hands of this terrorist group is a step closer to lasting peace and security for our communities,” he stated.
The military emphasized that the success of the operation highlights the value of encouraging former combatants to return to the fold of the law and contribute to dismantling the operational capabilities of local terrorist groups.
BGen. Santos also called on the public to continue supporting the government’s peace and security efforts. “Rest assured that your Persuader Troopers will continue to perform their mandate of protecting the people and securing our communities. I urge everyone to remain vigilant and continue to support our security efforts,” he added.
Further investigations are underway to determine the full extent of the arms cache and its possible connections to other insurgent activities in the region.