Surigao del sur: Government troops from the 36th Infantry Battalion (36IB) and other units under the 901st Infantry Brigade (901Bde) successfully recovered three high-powered firearms during an operation in the hinterlands of Barangay Hinapuyan, Carmen. The operation, conducted on Wednesday, resulted in the seizure of two M16 rifles and an AK-47 rifle.

According to Philippines News Agency, the recovery was facilitated by information provided by two former New People's Army (NPA) combatants who had surrendered to the 36IB on separate occasions. These former rebels, known by their aliases 'Rem' and 'Jelo', were part of the NPA's Sub-Regional Sentro de Grabidad Westland under the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.

Col. Darius Resuello, Acting Brigade Commander of the 901Bde, stated that the cooperation of the surrendering rebels was instrumental in the recovery of the firearms. He noted that the former rebels are eligible for cash compensation through the Firearms Remuneration component of the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP).

Lt. Col. Joselito Ante, commander of the 36IB, urged remaining NPA members in the region to lay down their arms and return to their families. He emphasized the opportunity for a peaceful life with government support through the ECLIP initiative.