CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, DOS, Maguindanao del Norte – Another 15 members of a lawless terrorist group operating in Maguindanao del Norte surrendered to government forces on Monday morning, December 16, 2024.
In a formal ceremony held at the Headquarters of the Brigade Support Area, 1st Brigade Combat Team (1BCT), the individuals were presented to Brig. Gen. Jose Vladimir Cagara, Commander of the 1BCT, by Lt. Col. Gilbert Boado, Commanding Officer of the unit.
The surrendering individuals also turned over their military equipment, which included four 40mm RPGs, two Cal. 50 Barrett sniper rifles, one M1 Carbine Cal. 30, one Carbine Cal. 30 Garand, two 7.62mm sniper rifles, one KG9 9mm UZI, eleven improvised explosive devices (IEDs), one cartridge of a 40mm RPG with propellant, and one rifle grenade cartridge.
Brig. Gen. Cagara expressed optimism and gratitude for the decision of the former combatants to embrace peace and development. “We will continue to advance our efforts for peace to achieve the development of the communities to which they belong,” Brig. Gen. Cagara stated.
Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete, Commander of the 6th Infantry Division (6ID) and Joint Task Force (JTF) Central, commended all stakeholders for their unwavering support and cooperation in achieving this milestone.
“JTF Central and 6ID recognize the efforts of our external and internal stakeholders for peace initiatives, especially now that the National and Local Elections, as well as the BARMM Parliamentary Elections, are approaching. We ensure that we will do our utmost to maintain peace and order in the regions under our coverage,” Maj. Gen. Nafarrete emphasized.
The surrender of the 15 former militants highlights ongoing government efforts to end armed conflict and pave the way for sustainable peace and development in conflict-affected areas. Authorities remain committed to facilitating the reintegration of former combatants into society, while also ensuring the safety and security of local communities.