Agusan del sur: Information from a former combatant led troops of the 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB) and 3rd Special Forces Battalion to uncover a concealed high-powered firearm in Mt. Ararat, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur, on Tuesday, the 4th Infantry Division (4ID) reported. Government troops recovered in the area an M16 rifle with two magazines.

According to Philippines News Agency, the former rebel informed the troops that he personally buried the high-powered firearm sometime in 2022. This tip-off played a crucial role in the recovery of the weapon, which could have otherwise posed a threat to communities and government forces in the region.

30IB commander Lt. Col. Rey Vergel Annogui highlighted the contributions of former rebels to the success of such operations. He emphasized that their cooperation is vital in locating hidden war materiel and preventing their use against communities and government forces in Agusan del Sur.

The successful operation underscored the effectiveness of sustained peace and security efforts by government troops in the province. 4ID commander Maj. Gen. Marion Angcao praised the operating troops and pointed out significant progress in the campaign against the New People's Army (NPA). He noted that the remaining NPA members in the region have either surrendered or been rendered ineffective, bringing the province closer to declaring Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS).

Maj. Gen. Angcao also acknowledged the support of former rebels in efforts to declare the entire Caraga Region under SIPS status, thus contributing to long-term peace and security in the area.