Philippine Army troops discovered banned anti-personnel landmines allegedly linked to the New People’s Army (NPA) in Barangay Magsaysay, a remote village in Mapanas, Northern Samar, during a military operation on June 30, 2025.
The 78th Infantry (Warrior) Battalion, under the 803rd Infantry (Peacemaker) Brigade, uncovered four anti-personnel mines, 20 pieces of molded PVC used as improvised explosive device (IED) casings, and a gallon of sharp nails believed to serve as shrapnel.
Such explosives are prohibited under international humanitarian law (IHL) due to the risk they pose to civilians.
Lt. Col. Francis Rosales, commander of the 78th IB, condemned the continued use of these weapons by the NPA, which he said reflects a disregard for human life, particularly in far-flung communities.
“The discovery of these IHL-banned anti-personnel mines reaffirms the CTG’s blatant disregard for the safety and well-being of our people,” Rosales said.
He urged active NPA members to surrender and consider joining the government’s reintegration efforts.
The military has vowed to continue operations in the region to prevent further threats and ensure the safety of local residents.
