Caraga: Government troops recovered eight high-powered firearms and neutralized a communist New People's Army (NPA) combatant during a series of operations in the Caraga Region and Bukidnon province, the Army's 4th Infantry Division (4ID) reported Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, on April 26, troops from the 75th Infantry Battalion (IB), with assistance from a former rebel, recovered four AK-47 rifles and ammunition hidden by NPA insurgents in the hinterlands of Barangay Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur.

The next day, soldiers from the 28IB encountered a group of NPA fighters in Barangay San Luis, Malitbog, Bukidnon, resulting in the death of a rebel identified as Joel Balos Dalunhay and the recovery of an M16 rifle.

On April 28, the 3rd Special Forces Battalion recovered two more AK-47 rifles and one M653 Carbine rifle in Barangay San Isidro, Lianga town, based on information provided by three surrendered NPA members.

'The success of these operations is part of our ongoing efforts to dismantle remaining NPA elements, disrupt their operations, and restore lasting peace in vulnerable communities,' said 4ID commander Maj. Gen. Michele Anayron Jr. He added that the NPA's declining manpower and resources have significantly weakened their capability to launch attacks across the Caraga and Northern Mindanao regions.