CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte — Ten former members of armed extremist groups voluntarily surrendered to the Philippine Army on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, marking another significant step toward peace and stability in Central Mindanao.
The surrender involved six members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and four members of the Dawlah Islamiyah Hassan Group from the towns of Datu Unsay, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, and Datu Hoffer in Maguindanao del Sur. The former rebels formally laid down their arms before the 90th Infantry (Bigkis-Lahi) Battalion at Barangay Kabengi, Datu Saudi Ampatuan.
During the ceremony, the returnees turned over 10 high-powered and military-grade weapons, including four improvised Barrett-type rifles, one R4 rifle, one Garand rifle, two M203 grenade launchers, and two 60mm mortars. Military officials said the recovery of these weapons significantly reduces the operational capability of armed groups in the area.
Lt. Col. Loqui O. Marco, Commanding Officer of the 90th Infantry Battalion, said the former combatants decided to abandon the armed struggle after realizing that violence offered no real future for them and their families.
“They came to understand that armed conflict only leads to suffering and uncertainty. By choosing peace, they are giving themselves and their communities a chance for a better life,” Marco said.
The surrender was made possible through the sustained efforts of the 90th Infantry Battalion, the 601st Infantry “Unifier” Brigade led by Brig. Gen. Edgar L. Catu, and various local government units under the government’s “Balik-Baril” Program, which encourages rebels to return to the fold of the law.
As part of the reintegration process, each former rebel received 10 sacks of rice from the mayors of Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Datu Abdullah Sangki, and Ampatuan. They also received cash assistance and livelihood support from the Ministry of Public Order and Safety-BARMM (MPOS-BARMM) and the Provincial Government of Maguindanao del Sur to help them rebuild their lives.
The surrender ceremony was attended by Brig. Gen. Catu, Datu Saudi Ampatuan Mayor Datu Bassir “Banjo” Dimaukom Utto, representatives of the Maguindanao del Sur Police Provincial Office, the Office of the Governor, MPOS-BARMM, and other local officials.
In his message, Brig. Gen. Catu praised the former rebels for choosing the path of peace and transformation.
“Their decision to return to the government is a symbol of courage and change. It reminds us that there is always a way back to a peaceful life with one’s family and community,” Catu said.
He also urged other remaining armed individuals to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the government and abandon violence.
Joining the call for peace, Maj. Gen. Jose Vladimir R. Cagara, Commander of Joint Task Force Central and the 6th Infantry Division, described the surrender as a collective victory for the region.
“This successful reintegration is a victory for every Filipino in Central Mindanao. Our efforts are aimed at building communities that benefit from peace and order. We encourage those who are still armed to surrender their weapons and live with dignity and security alongside their families,” Cagara said.
Local officials present at the event included Vice Mayor Moadz Alim of Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Councilor Harris Ampatuan of Datu Hoffer, Vice Mayor Samsodhen Sangki of Datu Abdullah Sangki, and Datu Unsay Police Chief PCapt. Argie Eyana, among others.
Military and civilian authorities emphasized that the government will continue to strengthen peace-building initiatives, livelihood programs, and community development efforts to prevent former combatants from returning to armed activities.
Officials said the latest surrender underscores the growing effectiveness of localized peace engagements and reintegration programs in addressing long-standing security concerns in Maguindanao del Sur and nearby areas, paving the way for lasting stability and development in the region.