Camp Evangelista, Cagayan de Oro City — The 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division of the Philippine Army reported significant operational gains as its frontline units intensified pressure against remaining Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) elements across Northern Mindanao and the Caraga Region, leading to armed encounters, seizure of war materiel, and the voluntary surrender of former rebels.
In Surigao del Sur, troops under the 401st Infantry Brigade, particularly the 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion, engaged remnants of Communist New People’s Army (NPA) elements during focused military operations in Barangay Cayale, Tago, on January 10, 2026. The encounter resulted in the seizure of an M14 rifle, an M16 bolt carrier assembly, a rifle grenade, medical paraphernalia, and other war materiel, further weakening the operational capability of the armed group.
The military said the operation was part of sustained intelligence-driven efforts to dismantle remaining CTG forces and prevent them from regaining a foothold in the area.
Meanwhile, in North Central Mindanao, the 403rd Infantry Brigade recorded another milestone after two CTG members, formerly affiliated with the dismantled HQ Loader and GF89 of the SRC-2, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC), voluntarily surrendered to government forces. The surrenderers turned over one AK-47 rifle and are now undergoing custodial debriefing and documentation as part of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).
The Army noted that the latest surrenders underscore the effectiveness of the government’s whole-of-nation approach, coupled with intensified military operations and sustained community engagement.
“These accomplishments reflect our sustained and coordinated efforts to degrade CTG manpower, resources, and influence across our areas of responsibility,” the 4th Infantry Division said in a statement.
In a joint statement, Brigadier General Seigfred C. Tubalado, Commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, and Colonel Glenn Joy U. Aynera, Acting Commander of the 401st Infantry Brigade, commended the professionalism, discipline, and dedication of their troops in conducting focused military operations.
They emphasized that the recent operational gains and voluntary surrenders are a clear indication of the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and the strong support of local communities.
“We continue to urge the remaining CTG members to lay down their arms, choose peace, and take advantage of the government’s reintegration programs,” the commanders said. “Our brigades remain committed to protecting our communities and sustaining peace and development in our respective areas of operation.”
The 4th Infantry Division reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying operations in coordination with local government units, law enforcement agencies, and community stakeholders to ensure lasting peace, stability, and development in Northern Mindanao and Caraga.