CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City – As part of continuous efforts to uphold the recently declared Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) status in the Caraga Region, troops of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division seized seven (7) high-powered firearms during separate focused military operations last Saturday, July 18, 2026.
Elements of the 3rd Special Forces Battalion under the 401st Infantry Brigade, 4ID, together with the 67th Infantry Battalion of the 10th Infantry Division, recovered six (6) high-powered firearms in Barangay Kolambugan, Sibagat, Agusan del Sur. The success came from verified intelligence shared by former rebels and sustained security presence in the area.
Seized items included two (2) M16 rifles, two (2) AK-47 rifles, one (1) M1 Garand rifle, and one (1) homemade shotgun.
On the same day, another team from the 3rd Special Forces Battalion—alongside troops of the 36th Infantry Battalion and the Philippine National Police—captured one (1) M16 rifle, two (2) anti-personnel improvised explosive devices (IEDs), magazines, and ammunition in Barangay Maitum, Tandag City, Surigao del Sur.
Brigadier General Benjamin L. Leander, Commander of the 401st Infantry Brigade, stated the recovery proves how effective intelligence-driven operations are, backed by growing public support for the government’s peace efforts.
“This achievement shows the strong partnership between our forces and peace-loving communities in Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur. Every weapon we take away strips the CTG of their ability to spread violence and endanger our people,” he added.
Major General Marion T. Angcao, Commander of 4ID, lauded the joint units for their success, describing these recoveries as vital steps toward lasting peace and development in the region.
“Even after dismantling all CTG units and declaring Caraga under SIPS, our mission does not end here. These recovered firearms stand as proof of our troops’ dedication and the trust of our communities. We will keep our focused operations going, work hand-in-hand with our stakeholders, and protect every gain we have made—so no Caraganon goes back to fear, and no CTG element regains ground,” said Major General Angcao.
