TROOPS from the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom), under the 4th Infantry Division (4ID), have dealt a significant blow to the New People’s Army (NPA) with the recovery of a total of 12 high-powered firearms in Agusan del Norte through a series of operations from June 18 to July 4, 2025.
The latest successes occurred on July 3 and 4, stemming from vital intelligence provided by a former rebel.
On July 3, personnel from the 29th Infantry Battalion (29IB), operating under the 901st Infantry Brigade, conducted a focused military operation that led to the recovery of three (3) AK-47 rifles.
The following day, a joint operation by the 29th IB and the 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB) resulted in the seizure of an additional four (4) AK-47 rifles and one (1) M16A1 rifle, bringing the total for these two days to eight (8) high-powered firearms.
These recent recoveries are part of a broader series of successful operations by the 29th and 30th Infantry Battalions, both under the operational control of the 901st Infantry Brigade, 4ID.
From June 18 to July 4, a total of 12 high-powered firearms were secured through a combination of surrender and arms cache retrieval efforts.
The 29IB successfully recovered an arms cache containing eight (8) high-powered firearms.
Meanwhile, the 30IB facilitated the surrender of two Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs), who also turned over their two (2) issued firearms.
Additionally, the 30IB discovered another arms cache holding two (2) more high-powered firearms.
The surrendering CNTs were identified as members of the Sub-Regional Sentro de Grabidad (SRSDG) Westland, under the Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).
These individuals had reportedly been actively involved in recent armed clashes with 30IB troops on June 13, 14, and 15 in Barangay Bugas-Bugas, Placer, Surigao del Norte.
EastMinCom emphasized that these accomplishments underscore the continued success of intensified security operations and the growing trust of former rebels in the government’s reintegration programs.
The command stated that the consistent decline in the NPA’s operational strength highlights the effectiveness of localized reintegration efforts and strong collaboration with former rebels, whose support remains crucial in maintaining the momentum of the counter-insurgency campaign.
Moreover, the Eastern Mindanao Command reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding peace gains and advancing development and stability across the region.
Photos courtesy of 4th Infantry Division
