CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, DOS, Maguindanao del Norte – A new group of local terrorists surrendered to the government after presenting themselves to the military troops in Brgy. Ladtingan, Pikit, Cotabato province, yesterday (September 5, 2024).
According to Lt. Col. Rowel Gavilanes, head of the 90th Infantry (Bigkis-Lahi) Battalion, eleven former victims of false ideology bravely surrendered to the authorities due to the hardships they experienced while continuously hiding from the pursuing military forces.
“We can no longer endure the hardships and we are also afraid for our lives because of the military operations,” said one of the former BIFF combatants.
They also surrendered their combat equipment, which included: one M14 Rifle, five Garand Rifles, two Cal.45 Pistols, one 50 cal. Rifle, one M203 tube, one RPG and ammunition, two 40mm grenades, and five hand grenades.
The eleven returnees were immediately presented to Brigadier General Donald M. Gumiran, Commander of the 602nd Brigade, attended by Hon. Sumulong K. Sultan, Mayor of Pikit, Cotabato; Hon. Salik P. Mamasabulod, Mayor of Pagalungan, Maguindanao del Sur; Hon. Ohto C. Montawal, Mayor of Datu Montawal, Maguindanao del Sur; and Hon. Riduan P. Makatidtang, OIC Vice Mayor of Ligawasan, SGA-BARMM.
The former rebels received financial assistance and rice from the mayors who wholeheartedly support those who were victims of false ideology and circumstances.
Brig. Gen. Gumiran called the surrender of the 11 former rebels a good start. “This is proof that we are gradually overcoming terrorism and violence in our area. This is a welcome development because the fear and anxiety of the people caused by this violence are now being replaced by confidence and safety in their security.”
Because of this, Major General Antonio G. Nafarrete, Commander of the 6ID and JTF-Central, praised the good step taken by the 11 former local terrorists in surrendering to the government. “Our doors are open for the remaining local terrorists who will decide to surrender their arms and reintegrate into society. Our government has various programs to help you in this transition, and we are ready to support you in building a better and more peaceful future for you and your families. The 6ID remains committed to maintaining peace and security in the region, and we believe that with the cooperation of all agencies and citizens, we can achieve a future free from violence and conflict,” said Maj. Gen. Nafarrete.
