Military recovers 7 high-powered firearms in Caraga

Military personnel recovered seven high-powered firearms in the Caraga Region during a focused operation on Saturday, July 18, 2026. According to reports, troops from the Army’s 3rd Special Forces Battalion unearthed the weapons and explosives while conducting a military operation in the area. The operation took place in the context of ongoing efforts to maintain stability and security in the region. The operation was part of a broader initiative led by the 4th Infantry Division (4ID). Troops from the 3rd Special Forces Battalion, operating under the 401st Infantry Brigade, and the 67th Infantry Battalion, which falls under the 10th Infantry Division, were involved in capturing six firearms in Barangay Kolambugan, Sibagat, Agusan del Sur. These weapons were reportedly linked to the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels. The operation was supported by intelligence gathered from former NPA members and reinforced by the military's continued presence in the area. In parallel, another team from the 3rd Special Forces Battalion worked with the 36th Infantry Battalion and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to seize additional items. This second group confiscated one M16 rifle, two anti-personnel improvised explosive devices (IEDs), along with magazines and ammunition in Barangay Maitum, Tandag City, Surigao del Sur. These findings underscore the persistent threat posed by armed groups in the region despite past efforts to dismantle their structures. The military has classified the Caraga Region as maintaining a “stable internal peace and security” status. However, officials remain vigilant, noting that while all units of the communist guerrillas have been officially dismantled, there is a need to continue operations to ensure no resurgence of such activities. Maj. Gen. Marion Angcao, commander of the 4th Infantry Division, praised the joint efforts of the troops involved, highlighting the importance of sustained military presence in preventing potential threats. The recovery of these weapons and explosives marks a significant step in the military’s strategy to secure the region. The involvement of multiple units, including specialized battalions and law enforcement agencies, demonstrates a coordinated approach to counterinsurgency and maintain public safety. The collaboration between different branches of the armed forces and local police underscores the complexity of the situation and the necessity for integrated responses. The discovery of these arms and explosives comes amid reports of previous operations in neighboring areas, such as Surigao and Bukidnon, where similar actions were taken to disrupt rebel activities. These operations reflect a broader trend of intensified military efforts to neutralize remnants of insurgent networks and prevent the establishment of new bases or supply lines. The success of these missions relies heavily on intelligence gathering and the cooperation of informants, including former members of the NPA who have since surrendered or defected. As the military continues its operations in the Caraga Region, the focus remains on ensuring long-term stability and security. The recent recoveries serve as a tangible outcome of these efforts, reinforcing the commitment of military and law enforcement authorities to uphold order and protect civilian populations from the dangers associated with armed conflict. The ongoing presence of military forces in the area is expected to deter further incursions and support community resilience against potential threats.