CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City — Soldiers from the 75th Infantry Battalion (75IB) recovered two anti-personnel mines (APMs) during a patrol operation in the hinterlands of Barangay San Pedro, Marihatag, Surigao del Sur on November 15, preventing what authorities say could have been a catastrophic incident.
The troops discovered the improvised explosives along a foot trail regularly used by residents traveling between remote communities. According to Lt. Col. Earl Pardillo, Commanding Officer of the 75IB, personnel from a nearby patrol base spotted the APMs and immediately secured the area to ensure no civilians were harmed.
Pardillo stressed that the use of APMs is a serious violation of International Humanitarian Law (IHL), underscoring the grave danger they pose to both soldiers and civilians.
“The capture of these anti-personnel mines highlights the continuing threat such devices pose to innocent lives. APMs do not distinguish between soldiers and civilians, and even children could have been the victims. These devices leave lifelong physical and emotional scars on communities,” Pardillo said.
The recovered explosives have been secured and turned over to explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) specialists for proper handling and disposal.
Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., Commander of the 4th Infantry Division (4ID), commended the troops for their swift and decisive action. He emphasized that their vigilance likely prevented injuries or loss of life among local residents who frequently use the trail.
He assured the public that the 4ID remains steadfast in its mission to protect communities from threats posed by armed groups. “We remain fully committed to protecting innocent lives, neutralizing threats, and ensuring that local communities can live, work, and travel safely,” Anayron said.