Lianga, Surigao del Sur – April 23, 2025 – A joint intelligence operation led by the Agusan del Norte Provincial Intelligence Unit resulted in the recovery of several high-powered firearms and war materiel in Sitio Han-ayan, Barangay Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur.
The successful operation was carried out in coordination with the 7th Special Forces Company (7SFC), 9th Special Forces Intelligence Team (9SFIT), 1st Surigao del Sur Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC), Surigao del Sur Provincial Intelligence Unit, and Lianga Municipal Police Station (MPS).
According to PCOL April Mark C. Young, Provincial Director of the Agusan del Norte Police Provincial Office, the team recovered the following items:
- Two (2) M16A1 rifles, one with a defaced serial number and the other marked as R0P157476
- One (1) M203 grenade launcher with defaced serial number
- One (1) WBO radio with charger
- Two (2) magazines (1 long and 1 short)
- Fourteen (14) 5.56mm ball cartridges
- Four (4) bandoliers
- Three (3) backpacks
- Five (5) ropes
- Two (2) ponchos
- One (1) rifle sling
- Ten (10) assorted T-shirts
- Other undisclosed high-powered firearms
The recovery was made possible through information provided by a former member of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG), identified only by the alias “Marmar,” who previously served as a Political Staff and Regional liaison (PSR) within the rebel group.
The recovered items are now under the custody of the Provincial Intelligence Unit of the Agusan del Norte Police Provincial Office (PIU-ANDPPO) for proper disposition.
“These former insurgents have chosen the path of hope over fear, progress over conflict,” said PCOL Young. “Their courage to break free from the chains of deception is proof that the relentless peace-building efforts of the Philippine National Police are making a real difference. We encourage other members of CTGs to pledge allegiance back to the government. Hopefully, more rebels will lay down their arms and reunite with their families peacefully.”
Authorities continue to intensify intelligence operations to neutralize remaining threats and promote lasting peace in conflict-affected areas.