Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur — Eighteen former violent extremists (FVEs) formally returned to the fold of the law and were presented to Brig. Gen. Jose Vladimir R. Cagara, Commander of the 1st Brigade Combat Team, Philippine Army, in a ceremony held on Tuesday, September 2, at the headquarters of the 92nd Infantry “Tanglaw Diwa” Battalion in Barangay Salbu.
The activity, led by 92IB Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Christian V. Cabading, highlighted the Army’s continuing efforts to promote peace and stability in conflict-affected areas of Maguindanao del Sur.
Stakeholders from the Bangsamoro government, provincial and local government units, and peace-oriented organizations witnessed the ceremony. They lauded the FVEs for choosing the path of peace and assured them of sustained assistance, including financial support and livelihood opportunities. Each returnee also received cash aid from the Ministry of Public Order and Safety, as well as rice and additional financial assistance from local government units.
In his message, Brig. Gen. Cagara underscored the importance of reconciliation, stressing that “there will be no winners in war” and that genuine progress can only be achieved through peace. He praised the 92IB for its dedication and urged other former fighters to follow the example of the returnees.
The 92IB, a unit of the 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division currently attached to the 1st Brigade Combat Team and under the operational control of the 6th Infantry “Kampilan” Division/Joint Task Force Central, reaffirmed its commitment to fostering peace and stability in its area of operations.