CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City — The 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division (4ID) of the Philippine Army has dealt a major blow to the New People’s Army (NPA) following the recovery of high-powered firearms and the death of a rebel in separate operations in Surigao del Sur and Bukidnon.
The series of successful military actions from April 26 to 28 led to the seizure of eight high-powered firearms and the neutralization of one NPA member.
On April 26, acting on information from a former rebel, troops of the 75th Infantry Battalion under the 401st Infantry Brigade discovered an arms cache in Tinindakan, Sitio Panukmuan, Barangay Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur. The operation yielded four AK-47 rifles, steel magazines, and live ammunition.
Two days later, on April 28, the 3rd Special Forces Battalion, also under the 401st Brigade, recovered another cache in Copper, Purok 5, Barangay San Isidro, Lianga. The haul included two more AK-47 rifles and one M653 rifle. This operation was made possible by information provided by three former NPA members who recently surrendered.
Brigadier General Antonio B. Dulnuan Jr., Commander of the 401st Infantry Brigade, acknowledged the vital role of former rebels in the operations. “Their courage to reveal these hidden weapons has weakened the NPA’s firepower and supported our campaign to bring peace and development to conflict-affected areas,” he said.
Meanwhile, on April 27, troops of the 28th Infantry Battalion clashed with NPA fighters in Sitio Bayawa, Barangay San Luis, Malitbog, Bukidnon. The encounter resulted in the death of Joel Balos Dalunhay, an NPA member from Sitio Linabu, and the recovery of an M16 rifle, a rifle grenade, medical supplies, radio equipment, journals, and personal belongings.
Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., Commander of 4ID, emphasized the significance of these operations in weakening the insurgents. “These are clear indications of the NPA’s declining strength. With every arms recovery and successful engagement, we are disrupting their capacity to commit violence and asserting the government’s presence in vulnerable communities,” he stated.
He praised the troops for their dedication and bravery, adding that their efforts are paving the way for peace and security in Northern Mindanao and Caraga.
The recent victories underscore the military’s continued momentum in dismantling remaining NPA forces, which the Philippine government has designated as a terrorist organization.