DATU SAUDI AMPATUAN, Maguindanao del Sur — December 5, 2025.
In a powerful show of unity and hope for long-awaited peace, the Philippine Army’s 1st Brigade Combat Team (1BCT) formally received 25 former violent extremists along with 29 assorted high-powered firearms in a historic ceremony held in Barangay Salbu on Friday.
Led by Acting Commander Col. Rommel S. Pagayon, the event marked another significant stride in the government’s campaign to end decades of armed conflict in the Bangsamoro region. The surrendered firearms—ranging from rifles to explosive devices—were turned over as symbols of reconciliation and a commitment to abandon armed struggle.
The ceremony opened with the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and the BARMM Hymn, followed by an audiovisual presentation showcasing ongoing peace and transformation programs in the region.
In his message, Lt. Col. Anacito C. Naz, Commanding Officer of the 92nd Infantry Battalion, underscored the military’s pledge to fully support the reintegration of the returnees. He emphasized that the Armed Forces will continue to provide avenues for former combatants to rebuild their lives through livelihood, skills training, and socio-development programs.
The 25 individuals who returned to the fold of the law came from several municipalities:
- Datu Salibo – 2
- Sultan sa Barongis – 1
- Mamasapano – 2
- Shariff Saydona Mustapha – 3
- Datu Saudi Ampatuan – 17
Local government officials, including representatives of the Vice Governor and various mayors, reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining peace initiatives.
Assistance packages were immediately distributed to the former militants through MSWO Nina Jawhara T. Usman of Datu Saudi Ampatuan and SCCB Director Aliah B. Adam, highlighting the unified effort of civil society, the LGUs, and security forces.
Col. Pagayon described the surrender as a strong vote of confidence from communities long affected by armed conflict, stating:
“This ceremony reflects the trust and cooperation between the community and our security forces. We will continue working tirelessly to sustain peace in Maguindanao del Sur.”
The program concluded with the singing of “Pilipinas Kong Mahal” and a photo session capturing soldiers in battle dress uniforms standing side-by-side with local officials and former rebels—an image symbolizing hope, healing, and the commitment to a conflict-free future.
Friday’s ceremony stands as a powerful reminder that peace is achievable when communities and institutions work hand in hand, leaving behind the shadows of past violence in favor of reconciliation and progress.