THE 4TH Infantry Division (4ID) seized seven high-powered firearms and explosives during twin military operations against the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Caraga on Saturday, July 18, 2026.
In Barangay Kolambugan, Sibagat, Agusan del Sur, a combined force from the 3rd Special Forces Battalion (3SFBn) under the 401st Infantry Brigade and the 67th Infantry Battalion under the 10th Infantry Division intercepted two M16 rifles, two AK-47 rifles, one M1 Garand rifle, and a homemade shotgun.
On the same day in Barangay Maitum, Tandag City, Surigao del Sur, a separate joint team composed of the 3SFBn, the 36th Infantry Battalion, and the Philippine National Police (PNP) recovered an additional M16 rifle, ammunition, magazines, and two deadly anti-personnel improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
“This accomplishment reflects the strong collaboration between our troops and peace-loving communities in Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur,” said BGEN Benjamin L. Leander, commander of the 401st Brigade. “Every firearm captured denies the CTG the means to sow violence and threaten the safety of our people.”
While all CTG units in Caraga have officially been dismantled, the 4ID leadership maintains that victory requires vigilance.
Major General Marion T. Angcao, commander of the 4ID, commended the joint troops, emphasizing that the declaration of SIPS is a milestone, not the end of the line.
“Our mission does not end there,” Maj. Gen. Angcao warned. “We will sustain our focused military operations and together, we will safeguard the gains of SIPS for the benefit of every Caraganon, and prevent any resurgence of the CTG.”
