PLACER, Surigao del Norte — September 12, 2025 — A crucial tip from a former member of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) led to the recovery of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Butuan City, averting what authorities say could have been a major threat to nearby communities.
Alias Julia, who surrendered to the government in July along with two high-powered firearms, disclosed the location of the explosives to the Philippine Army’s 48th Infantry Battalion. Acting on the information, soldiers led by Lt. Col. Kenny Rae C. Tizon recovered the IEDs on September 11 in Purok 6, Barangay Bugsukan, Butuan City.
Recovered items included a 20-kilogram white container of ammonium nitrate, a 15-kilogram black container of ammonium nitrate, four blasting caps with detonating cords, and two 40-meter electric wires. Authorities said the explosives, capable of inflicting damage within a 50-meter radius, were stored just one kilometer from Barangay Bugsukan.
“The proximity of the recovered IEDs to the community raises serious concerns about indiscriminate damage. Alias Julia’s cooperation not only prevented possible casualties among our troops but also saved innocent civilians from harm—an outcome that the CTGs do not sincerely consider,” Lt. Col. Tizon stressed.
According to Julia, a former member of the Sub-Region Sentro de Grabidad Westland (SRSDG-WL) under the Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), CTG leaders had forced members to stockpile explosives near civilian areas, disregarding the risks to local residents.
The Army underscored that the use and storage of landmines violate both the Ottawa Convention, also known as the 1997 Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Treaty, and Republic Act 9851, which penalizes crimes against international humanitarian law.
“Our primary concern is the safety and security of the communities. We will not allow these CTGs to continue terrorizing and harming innocent civilians,” said Colonel Manuel Darius M. Resuello, Acting Brigade Commander of the 901st Infantry Brigade. “Our unwavering commitment to protecting the lives of our fellow Caraganons drives us to intensify efforts against remaining CTG threats and ensure lasting peace and order in the Caraga Region.”
The 48th Infantry Battalion, under the 901st Infantry Brigade, is responsible for maintaining peace and security in Butuan City, Sibagat, and Bayugan in Agusan del Sur.