MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon — May 5, 2026 — Two former rebels have turned over six assorted high-powered firearms to authorities in Bukidnon, marking another step in the government’s ongoing campaign to encourage members of armed groups to return to civilian life.
The ceremonial turnover was led by Provincial Director PCOL Oliver S. Navales of the Bukidnon Police Provincial Office (PPO) at Camp Captain Ramon M. Onahon in Malaybalay City.
The firearms were voluntarily surrendered by two individuals categorized as “Friends Rescued” (FRs), a term used by authorities to refer to former members of insurgent groups who have chosen to abandon the armed struggle and reintegrate into mainstream society.
Police said the surrender was facilitated through the Task Force Balik-Loob Program under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which provides assistance packages, livelihood support, and other reintegration services to former rebels.
“These individuals have made the courageous decision to return to the fold of the law and start anew,” Navales said, emphasizing the importance of sustained government efforts to promote peace and development in conflict-affected areas.
The event was witnessed by key government and military officials, including Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) representative Shella Marie C. Albarece, PMAJ Romar Jones T. Cahucom, chief of the Provincial Logistics Unit, and CPT Mahathir Jomar D. Cayda of the 1st Special Forces Battalion, Philippine Army, based in Manolo Fortich.
Authorities underscored that the successful surrender highlights the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration in addressing insurgency through peaceful means rather than armed confrontation.
Under E-CLIP, former rebels are offered financial assistance, housing support, skills training, and access to government services to help them rebuild their lives and reintegrate into their communities.
Local officials reiterated their call for remaining members of insurgent groups to take advantage of the program, assuring them of the government’s commitment to their safety and rehabilitation.
The Bukidnon PPO said it will continue to work closely with partner agencies and the military to sustain momentum in the campaign for lasting peace and security in the province.