MAMASAPANO, Maguindanao del Sur — A former member of a violent extremist group formally surrendered to government forces on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, after being persuaded by an aerial leaflet campaign conducted by the military, authorities said.
The surrender ceremony was led by BGEN Edgar L. Catu, Commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade, and held at the Municipal Hall in Barangay Manungkaling. During the presentation, the former combatant voluntarily turned over his firearm and pledged to abandon armed struggle.
Military officials identified the surrenderer as Sala Guiaman Guiamadel, who yielded one M16 rifle. According to the Army, his decision came after receiving leaflets dropped by troops under the 6th Infantry Division (Kampilan), conveying the government’s message that pathways to peace, reintegration, and family reunification remain open to those who lay down their arms.
The activity was spearheaded by the 33rd Infantry Battalion (Makabayan) in coordination with the Local Government Unit of Mamasapano. Present during the ceremony were officers from the 90th Infantry Battalion (Bigkis-Lahi), company and civil-military operations commanders, as well as local leaders led by Mayor Akmad Butch Ampatuan Jr. and Vice Mayor Akmad M. Ampatuan Sr..
In his message, Catu underscored the role of clear and compassionate communication in countering extremism. “When the right information is delivered clearly and with concern, it encourages our countrymen to choose peace over violence,” he said, adding that the government and the Armed Forces of the Philippines remain ready to support those seeking a new beginning.
The surrender was also hailed by MGEN Jose Vladimir R. Cagara, Commander of Joint Task Force Central and the 6th Infantry Division, who praised the professionalism and coordination of the troops and the local government. He reiterated that the military’s leaflet operations aim to reach remaining members of groups such as the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and the Dawlah Islamiya–Hasan Group, urging them to return to the fold of the law.
“The government’s programs for transformation and reintegration are in place,” Cagara said. “Our doors remain open for those who choose peace and a lawful life with their families.”
Security officials said they expect more surrenders as information operations continue across conflict-affected areas in Central Mindanao.