SHARIFF AGUAK, Maguindanao del Sur — Three former members of a violent extremist group voluntarily surrendered to government authorities and turned over five high-powered and handheld firearms during the culmination of the Modified Community Support Program (MCSP), underscoring ongoing efforts to weaken local terrorist networks through military operations, community engagement, and reintegration initiatives.
The former extremists formally pledged allegiance to the government and surrendered their weapons to Brig. Gen. Edgar L. Catu, Commander of the 601st Infantry (Unifier) Brigade, during the culmination ceremony organized by the 34th Infantry (Reliable) Battalion under the leadership of Lt. Col. Edgardo Batinay in Barangay Bialong, Shariff Aguak on July 9, 2026.
Authorities said the surrendered firearms included one rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) launcher, two Garand rifles, and two pistols, all of which are expected to undergo documentation and proper disposition in accordance with military procedures.
Information Campaign Led to Voluntary Surrender
Military officials attributed the successful surrender to an intensive Information Dissemination Campaign conducted on June 30, during which soldiers used a military helicopter to deliver appeals urging remaining members of local terrorist groups in Maguindanao del Sur to abandon armed struggle and take advantage of the government’s peace and reintegration programs.
The campaign encouraged the three former extremists to approach the deployed MCSP Team of the 34th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Bialong, where they voluntarily expressed their intention to return to the fold of the law and surrender their weapons.
The military described the development as another significant step in reducing the operational capability of violent extremist groups while encouraging peaceful reintegration through government intervention.
Reintegration Backed by Government Assistance
The surrender ceremony was highlighted during a Serbisyo Caravan conducted alongside the MCSP culmination program, where various government agencies delivered essential services to residents aimed at improving livelihoods and strengthening trust between communities and the government.
To support the reintegration of the former combatants, the Local Government of Shariff Aguak, the Provincial Government of Maguindanao del Sur, and the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD)-Shariff Aguak immediately extended assistance, including assorted food packs, sacks of rice, and cash aid.
Officials said the assistance forms part of the government’s continuing peace-building and reintegration initiatives designed to help former extremists transition into productive civilian lives.
Youth Program Targets Prevention of Extremist Recruitment
Aside from facilitating the surrender of former extremists, the MCSP also focused on preventing radicalization among young people.
As part of the program, the third batch of the Unifier Dream Builder – Youth Educational Tour was successfully conducted on July 2, benefiting 50 Arabic students from Barangay Bialong.
The educational initiative sought to strengthen awareness among the youth on the importance of peace, discipline, disaster preparedness, and active participation in community development while helping protect them from recruitment by violent extremist organizations.
Military officials emphasized that educating vulnerable sectors, particularly young people, remains a crucial component of sustaining long-term peace in conflict-affected communities.
Military Reaffirms Commitment to Peace and Law Enforcement
In his message during the event, Brig. Gen. Catu reaffirmed that the 601st Infantry Brigade remains open to individuals seeking to abandon violence and embrace peaceful lives.
“The 601st Brigade will always welcome those who wish to return to the fold of the law. However, we will not stop pursuing those who continue to reject peace and will ensure they are held accountable under the law,” Catu said.
He added that while military operations against armed groups will continue, the Armed Forces also remains committed to supporting local governments in delivering essential public services throughout the Bangsamoro region.
According to Catu, close coordination between the security sector and civilian government agencies is vital in sustaining peace, promoting development, and improving the welfare of communities affected by conflict.
Army Chief Urges Remaining Extremists to Choose Peace
In a separate message, Maj. Gen. Jose Vladimir R. Cagara, Commander of the Joint Task Force Central and the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division, stressed that the Armed Forces’ mission extends beyond security operations.
He said the military also serves as a partner in delivering basic government services and providing former members of armed groups with opportunities to rebuild their lives through peaceful means.
Cagara called on the remaining members of armed groups in Central Mindanao to take advantage of the government’s open reintegration programs instead of continuing armed resistance.
He emphasized that the 6th Infantry Division will continue working closely with local government units and partner agencies to preserve peace, expand government services, and promote lasting stability across Bangsamoro communities.
Military officials said the latest surrender demonstrates how sustained security operations, combined with community-based development programs and government support, continue to encourage former extremists to abandon violence and contribute to lasting peace in Maguindanao del Sur.