QUEZON, BUKIDNON — A total of 189 former rebels, including 44 members of the Militiang Bayan and four from so-called “white areas,” formally surrendered to authorities on Friday, August 8, 2025, at the covered court in Barangay Butong, Quezon, Bukidnon.
The surrenderees took their oath of allegiance to the government and handed over 72 firearms, both high-powered and low-powered, as part of their reintegration into mainstream society. They also received financial assistance from the government to help them start anew.
According to Lt. Col. Tony Bulao, commander of the 89th Infantry Battalion, the former rebels came from various barangays in Quezon, Valencia City, San Fernando, and Kitaotao. He emphasized that the mass surrender is a vital step toward the municipality’s potential declaration as insurgency-free.
10th Infantry Division Commander Maj. Gen. Allan Hambala welcomed the return of the “friends rescued” to the fold of the law, assuring them of continued support in rebuilding their lives.
The event was hosted by the 1003rd Infantry Brigade of the 10th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, and attended by key national and local leaders. Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri served as guest of honor and speaker, joined by Quezon Municipal Mayor Pablo M. Lorenzo III, Brig. Gen. Marion T. Angcao, PCOL Isralene Z. Lauren, PLTCOL Dave E. Mahilum, PLTCOL Lornoel B. Ochate, and other military and police officials.
Authorities underscored that the surrender reflects the continued success of peace and development programs in the province, paving the way for lasting stability in Bukidnon.