Photo courtesy of PNP
The Philippine National Police (PNP) uncovered a cache of firearms and explosive materials during an operation in Lasam, Cagayan, authorities said.
Police said the operation took place on May 30 in Barangay Viga, where officers recovered weapons and components that could have been used in attacks threatening public safety.
The raid stemmed from intelligence information provided by a former rebel, prompting authorities to conduct focused security activities across several villages, including Tagao, Viga, Peru, Nabannagan East and Nabannagan West.
Personnel from multiple police units carried out the operation, including members of the provincial mobile force, Special Action Force, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 2, intelligence units, and the Lasam police.
Authorities said the search led to the discovery of firearms, ammunition, communication devices, and bomb-making materials hidden in a remote area.
Among the items recovered were improvised blasting caps, detonating cords, fuse materials, high-explosive cartridges, grenades, an anti-personnel mine component, assorted ammunition, revolvers, magazines, and an improvised shotgun. Also seized were cellular phones, a handheld radio, electrical components, and rifle grenades. The items were taken to the local police station for documentation, while explosives were turned over to specialists for proper handling.
Police chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez said the seizure disrupted possible threats, noting that removing such weapons helps prevent violence and protects communities. He added that authorities would continue pursuing leads to stop armed groups from carrying out illegal activities. He also stressed that each firearm and explosive recovered contributes to safer communities, with police remaining alert against threats to peace and order.
The police said the operation aligned with its ongoing efforts to strengthen intelligence-driven actions and sustain security initiatives. Authorities added that operations would continue as part of broader efforts to prevent armed groups from rebuilding capacity, in line with directives from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.