1st Special Forces Battalion

THE 4TH Infantry (Diamond) Division (4ID) of the Eastern Mindanao Command achieved a major security breakthrough after a high-impact joint operation led to the recovery of a Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) arms cache.

The cache was unearthed on December 5, 2025, in the rugged terrain of San Luis, Malitbog, Bukidnon, following a successful mission by the 1st Special Forces Battalion (SFB), 28th Infantry Battalion (IB), and 4ID intelligence units.

The combined forces of the 403rd Infantry (Peacemaker) Brigade and the 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade successfully recovered the underground CTG weapons cache, which contained: Two CZ 858 rifles, one M16A1 rifle, ten 7.62mm 30-round magazines, and one 5.56mm 30-round magazine.

The operation’s success was made possible by the information provided by alias Reboy/Baren, a former CTG member who recently surrendered to the 1SFB.

 Brigadier General Seigfred Tubalado, commander of the 403rd Infantry (Peacemaker) Brigade, praised the troops for the accomplishment.

“This achievement demonstrates the Army’s ability to dismantle CTG remnants and protect communities from attempts to regroup,” said Brigadier General Tubalado. 

“Every recovered firearm is a step closer to peace and a testament to our commitment to the safety and security of our communities. We will continue to pursue and neutralize threats while supporting those who choose the path of peace.”

Meanwhile, 4ID commander Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr. commended the morale, discipline, and tactical proficiency of the units involved. He said each firearm recovered represents a life saved.

He reaffirmed the division’s commitment to continuing focused military operations while actively supporting peaceful surrender and reintegration programs under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).