By Edwin Fernandez

SEIZED EXPLOSIVES. Soldiers of the Army’s 603rd Infantry Brigade display explosives, including rocket-propelled grenade rounds and rifle grenades, recovered from a farm lot in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat on Thursday (Oct. 9, 2025). The successful recovery was made possible by a tip from a civilian. (Photo from the Philippine Army)

ISULAN, Sultan Kudarat – Government troops recovered and disposed of anti-tank rockets and rifle grenades found inside a residential compound here Thursday, the Army reported Friday.

Brig. Gen. Michael Santos, commander of the Army’s 603rd Infantry Brigade, said the 7th Infantry Battalion (7IB) responded to a civilian tip about the presence of possible explosives in the lot area of a certain Mutin Ali in Sitio Kimondo, Barangay Lagandang.

Upon validation, soldiers, in coordination with personnel of the Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal, the Operational Center – Explosive Hazard Management Response, and the Joint Peace Security Team, conducted a clearing operation.

Lt. Col. Tristan Vallescas, 7IB commander, said the search resulted in the recovery of four rounds of rocket-propelled grenade and two rounds of rifle grenade. The farm lot owner denied owning the explosives and could not explain how the war materials ended up in his compound.

“This successful recovery operation was made possible through the vigilance and cooperation of our fellow citizens. We encourage the community to remain proactive in reporting threats as we continue to safeguard peace and security in the area,” Vallescas said. (PNA)