MIDSAYAP, North Cotabato – Seven former members of a local terrorist group have chosen the path of peace and formally surrendered to the government on Tuesday morning, January 28, 2025, in Midsayap, North Cotabato.
During a brief ceremony, the surrenderees voluntarily presented themselves to Col. Ricky Bunayog, Acting Commander of the 602nd Infantry (Liberator) Brigade, alongside Lt. Col. Edgardo Batinay, Commanding Officer of the 34th Infantry Battalion, 11th Infantry Division, and PLt. Leonard Calayag, Chief of Police of Nabalawag, Special Geographic Area (SGA), Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The former rebels also turned over their weapons, which included two M14 rifles, two M79 grenade launchers, two Garand rifles, and a 7.62mm Barrett sniper rifle along with corresponding ammunition.
According to Col. Bunayog, the formal surrender took place at the Legislative Building Social Hall in Midsayap, North Cotabato. The event was led by Midsayap Mayor Rolando Sacdalan and Nabalawag, SGA-BARMM OIC Mayor Anwar Saluwag.
“We extend our gratitude to the local chief executives of both municipalities and the police units from Midsayap Police Station for ensuring the safe surrender of these individuals. We also thank the Ministry of Interior and Local Government, the Ministry of Social Services and Development of BARMM, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development Region XII for their initial financial and material support for our returning brothers,” said Col. Bunayog.
Brig. Gen. Donald Gumiran, Commander of the 6th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Central, emphasized the significance of the surrender in fostering peace and development in the region.
“Your decision is a step towards peace and progress. The entire JTF Central is grateful for your choice, and we hope this will bring a positive impact on your community,” Brig. Gen. Gumiran stated.
The surrender of these individuals is seen as a crucial step in ongoing efforts to achieve lasting peace in the region through reconciliation and reintegration programs provided by the government.
