DATU PIANG, Maguindanao del Sur – Four former members of a Violent Extremist Group (VEG) voluntarily surrendered to government forces, turning over high-powered firearms and formally pledging allegiance to peace during a ceremony held on January 10, 2026 at the headquarters of the 6th Infantry (Redskin) Battalion in Datu Piang.
The former extremists were officially presented to Brigadier General Edgar L. Catu, PA, Commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade, together with Lt. Col. Al Victor C. Burkley, Commanding Officer of the 6th Infantry Battalion. Their surrender marked another significant gain in the government’s intensified peace and security campaign in Central Mindanao.
The activity was witnessed by Hon. Omar Ali, Mayor of Datu Salibo, and Mr. Omar Sisay, representative of Shariff Saydona Mustapha, who both expressed support for the reintegration of the returnees into their communities. The local government units, in coordination with the office of MP Atty. Bai Sittie Fahanie S. Uy-Oyod, immediately provided rice and cash assistance to help the former fighters begin a new, peaceful life.
Along with their surrender, the four individuals turned over several high-powered weapons, including an M16 rifle, an M1 Garand rifle, an attached tube M203 grenade launcher, and an M79 grenade launcher, significantly reducing the firepower of extremist elements operating in the area.
In his message, Brig. Gen. Catu commended the four for their courage in abandoning armed struggle and choosing the path of peace. He urged remaining members of extremist groups to follow their example and return to the fold of the law.
“Your decision proves that peace is always possible. The 601st Brigade, together with our partners in government and the community, is ready to support those who sincerely want to change and live peacefully,” Catu said.
He emphasized that the military remains committed to working closely with local government units, civil society, and residents to maintain peace and stability in conflict-affected communities.
Meanwhile, Major General Jose Vladimir R. Cagara, PA, Commander of the Joint Task Force Central and the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division, lauded the 601st Infantry Brigade, the 6IB, and local government units for their relentless and effective peace initiatives. He called on other remaining members of terrorist groups to lay down their arms and reunite with their families.
“There is a future beyond violence. The government is ready to help you rebuild your lives and secure a peaceful future for your children,” Maj. Gen. Cagara stressed.
The surrender is seen as a major boost to ongoing efforts to weaken extremist groups and promote lasting peace in Maguindanao del Sur and neighboring areas, reinforcing the message that dialogue, cooperation, and community support remain powerful tools against radicalization and armed conflict.