TROOPS recovered two high-powered firearms following an encounter with the communist terrorist group (CTG) in Barangay Bagyang in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur on September 5, 2023.

According to the 36th Infantry Battalion (36IB), the clash occurred in the vicinity of Sitio Bakakaan in Barangay Bagyang, San Miguel after the troops responded to the information from concerned citizens of the said sitio.

The firefight between the government troops and around eight communist rebels lasted five minutes.

The 36IB recovered one 5.56mm M16A1 rifle, one 7.62mm M14 rifle, one long steel magazine with 22 rounds 5.56mm live ammunition, one backpack, assorted food supplies and personal belongings.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Vincent Viray of the 36IB, it is necessary to continue conducting combat clearing operations to push the remaining rebel group members to surrender.