TROOPS recovered three high-powered firearms following an encounter with the communist terrorist group (CTG) in Barangay Bugsukan, Butuan City on May 3, 2023.

According to the 29th Infantry Battalion (29IB), the clash occurred in So Tubuhon, Barangay Bugsukan in Butuan after the troops responded to the information from concerned citizens of So. Mandalayag in Barangay Pianing and residents from the neighboring areas regarding the presence of the armed group in the said barangay.

The reports said the members of the CTG were extoring food and demanding all kinds of supplies from the residents.

The firefight between the government troops and around 10 communist rebels lasted 40 minutes.

The 29IB recovered two AK47 rifles, one M16A1 rifle, assorted ammunition, foodstuff and subversive documents with high intelligence value.

Lieutenant Colonel Cresencio Gargar, the commanding officer of the 29IB, assured that they will intensify their pursuit operations to chase down the communist rebels who fled in different directions following the clash.

"I call on the members of the CPP-NPA to lay down your arms and surrender peacefully for the sake of your families. The only remaining option for you now is to return to the folds of the law and mainstream society to live a peaceful and normal life," Gargar said.

"We will perform our mandate in eradicating terrorist groups to maintain peace and order and foster development in Agusan del Norte," he added. (SunStar Philippines)