BASILAN PROVINCE — Three former members of Lawless Elements (LLEs) have voluntarily returned to the fold of the law and surrendered assorted high-powered firearms to government forces, marking another milestone in the Philippine Army’s continuing peace and reconciliation efforts in Basilan.
The formal presentation of the three former LLEs and the firearms they voluntarily yielded was held on July 31, 2026, at the Headquarters of the 1101st Infantry (Gagandilan) Brigade in Basilan Province. The ceremony was led by the 32nd Infantry (Daredevil) Battalion under the command of Lt. Col. Gerwin T. Maghuyop, Commanding Officer.
The surrenderers were identified as Padil Musallain Asmanul, also known as “Padil”; Epong Asmaul Atahal, also known as “Epong”; and Tong Irang Bahitala, also known as “Gober.” All three are residents of Barangay Etub-Etub, Sumisip, Basilan.
According to the military, the three voluntarily surrendered separately during the quarter as a result of sustained government peace initiatives, community engagement, and reconciliation efforts. Along with their surrender, they turned over assorted high-powered firearms to government authorities.
Military officials said the three were previously associated with the Najar Buena Group, where they allegedly performed various roles before deciding to abandon armed violence. Their decision to surrender, authorities said, reflects their intention to live peaceful and law-abiding lives while supporting ongoing government efforts to strengthen peace and security in Sumisip and other parts of Basilan.
The voluntary turnover of their firearms was also described by the military as a symbolic step toward ending their involvement in armed conflict and becoming partners of the government in advancing long-term peace, stability, and development within their communities.
Prior to the formal presentation, Lt. Col. Maghuyop briefed Brig. Gen. Michael L. Romero, PAF (RES), Wing Commander of the 2nd Air Force Wing Reserve and Chairperson, regarding the background and circumstances surrounding the surrender of the three former LLEs.
The briefing was attended by Basilan Governor Mujiv S. Hataman and Brig. Gen. Frederick M. Sales, Commander of the 1101st Infantry (Gagandilan) Brigade, underscoring the collaborative efforts between the military and local government in sustaining peace and security initiatives across the province.
Lt. Col. Maghuyop later presented the assorted high-powered firearms voluntarily surrendered by the former LLEs, highlighting what the military described as the continuing gains of the 32nd Infantry Battalion’s peace and security campaign through sustained engagement with communities and individuals vulnerable to armed violence.
As part of the government’s reintegration efforts, Brig. Gen. Romero personally extended financial assistance to the three former LLEs. The assistance is intended to help them begin rebuilding their lives as productive, peaceful, and law-abiding citizens while reintegrating into their respective communities.
In his message during the ceremony, Lt. Col. Maghuyop emphasized that every voluntary surrender represents more than simply laying down weapons.
“Every voluntary surrender signifies renewed trust, reconciliation, and another opportunity for individuals and their families to pursue a better future,” he said.
He also credited the successful reintegration efforts to sustained community engagement, trust-building initiatives, and the government’s Whole-of-Nation Approach, with active support from local government units, partner agencies, security forces, community leaders, and other peace stakeholders.
The 32nd Infantry Battalion reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing reconciliation while maintaining a strong security posture against threats to public safety. The unit also vowed to continue encouraging remaining members of armed groups to abandon violence, return to the fold of the law, and actively participate in building safer, more peaceful, and progressive communities throughout Basilan.