High-powered firearms seized in Albay clash with rebels

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 19, 2024): High-powered firearms seized in Albay clash with rebels (By Connie Calipay)

RECOVERED. Photo shows the recovered high-powered firearms in Pio Duran, Albay on Sunday (Aug. 18, 2024). The firefight lasted for 10 minutes, which resulted in the seizure of three M16 rifles, 243 bullets for 5.56mm, magazines and other equipment, the Philippine Army said Monday. (Photo courtesy of 9ID)

LEGAZPI CITY – The Philippine Army's 9th Infantry Division (9ID) reported on Monday that it recovered several high-powered firearms from the New People's Army (NPA) after an encounter in Albay province.

Maj. Frank Roldan, 9ID public affairs office chief, said the encounter occurred in Barangay Matanglad, Pio Duran town on Sunday.

"The incident was recorded at 5:05 in the afternoon after the 49IB responded with the police to the information provided by the residents on the alleged presence of six armed men," the report said.

Roldan said the firefight lasted for 10 minutes and resulted in the seizure of three M16 rifles, 243 bullets for 5.56 mm, magazines and other equipment.

"No one has been reported injured or killed on the side of the authorities, while it is still being determined on the side of the NPA that clashed," he said.

Security is being intensified in the area and neighboring villages to track down the whereabouts of the rebels, who are all members of Komiteng Larangan Guerila 1, Sub-regional Committee 5, Bicol Regional Part Committee.

The 9ID thanked the continuous cooperation of the citizens and ensured an immediate response to their information.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1231490