CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City — Troops under the 403rd Infantry (Peacemaker) Brigade of the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division successfully recovered a cache of firearms and ammunition during intensified military operations in Sitio Kaamaca, Barangay Boniton, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon, on September 30, 2025.
The operation, which involved the 1st Special Forces Battalion, 26th Infantry Battalion, 88th Infantry Battalion, 8th Infantry Battalion, and intelligence units of the 4ID, highlighted the Army’s unified and coordinated approach to counterinsurgency efforts in Northern Mindanao.
Recovered from the site were an M16 rifle (5.56mm), an M14 rifle (7.62mm), an empty M14 magazine assembly, one 7.62mm ball cartridge, and a bandolier. Authorities believe the seized war materials had been used by members of Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) operating in Bukidnon and nearby provinces.
Military officials said the recovery was made possible following the voluntary surrender of five CTG members at Camp Osito D. Bahian, Barangay 10, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, on September 29. Their revelations reportedly led to the successful discovery of the arms cache. Some of the surrenderers were accompanied by their spouses, reflecting the toll of decades-long insurgency on families in the region.
Brigadier General Seigfred C. Tubalado, Commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, praised the relentless dedication of his troops, stressing that the operation was not only a military achievement but also a product of trust and cooperation with local communities.
“Every firearm captured is one less weapon that can be used to sow violence and fear,” Tubalado said, reaffirming the Army’s commitment to safeguarding peace in Northern Mindanao.
Meanwhile, Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., Commander of the 4ID, lauded the soldiers’ professionalism and resolve, noting that the capture of the arms cache marks a significant step in degrading the enemy’s firepower and limiting their capacity to launch attacks.
“This success delivers a critical blow to the enemy’s logistics and mobility,” Anayron said. “It reinforces our mission to weaken their armed capability while protecting communities from violence.”
The Philippine Army vowed to sustain its focused military operations to further weaken insurgent groups and support peace and development initiatives in Bukidnon and the rest of Northern Mindanao.