CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City β Troops of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division scored two (2) operational success against the New People’s Army in Caraga regions, after unearthing an arms cache in the vicinity of Mt. Sinamparong, Barangay Bangonay, Tubay; and in the vicinity of Mt. Badjang, Brgy. Bangonay, Jabonga, all of Agusan del Norte on July 3 and July 4, 2025, respectively.
The successful retrieval was carried out by the 29th Infantry Battalion through a focused military operation launched as directed by the 901st Infantry Brigade and in coordination with the intelligence units of the 4ID and a tip-off from Ricky M. Per, a former top NPA leader who surrendered to the government forces last June 14, 2025. Acting on the intelligence, the troops immediately launched an operation that led to the discovery of three (3) serviceable 7.62mm AK-47 rifles on June 3, 2025.
The following day, with the joint forces of the troops from the 29th Infantry Battalion and 30th Infantry Battalion, the operation further led to the capture of four (4) additional serviceable 7.62mm AK-47 rifles and one (1) 5.56mm M16A1 rifle.
Lieutenant Colonel Mark S. Tabon, Commanding Officer of the 29IB, said the accomplishment was a result of their continuing localized reintegration efforts and close coordination with former rebels, whose ongoing cooperation continues to play a vital role in sustaining the momentum of the government’s counter-insurgency campaign.
He also expressed his gratitude for the support and swift action of the troops of 30IB led by Lieutenant Colonel Albert M. Batingga, Commanding Officer of the 30IB, whose unit played a crucial role in the success of the joint operation.
In his message, Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., Commander of 4ID stated that this achievement marked another setback for the NPA in the region as their operational capabilities continue to dwindle.
βThis latest achievement highlights the effectiveness of our whole-of-nation approach in ending local communist armed conflict. Every captured or unearthed firearm represents one less tool for violence and intimidation caused by the NPA. The relentless efforts of our troops, in synergy with local communities and former rebels, continue to put pressure on the dwindling number of NPA remnants still attempting to sow fear among our people. We will make sure they can no longer regain influence in the region,β he added.
