RAJAH BUAYAN, Maguindanao del Sur — October 20, 2026 — Four armed members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) have returned to the government fold under the Balik-Loob Program, marking another effort to encourage former combatants to abandon armed struggle and rebuild their lives with their families.
The four former BIFF members were presented during a ceremony led by Brig. Gen. Gremel B. Brual, commander of the 601st Infantry (Unifier) Brigade of the Philippine Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID). The activity was initiated by Lt. Col. Williard S. Maquida, commanding officer of the 34th Infantry (Reliable) Battalion of the Army’s 1st Infantry Division.
The initiative was carried out in coordination with the municipal governments of Rajah Buayan and General Salipada K. Pendatun, both in Maguindanao del Sur, under the leadership of Mayor Bai Maruja Ampatuan Mastura of Rajah Buayan and Mayor Mielyn B. Ali of General Salipada K. Pendatun.
The ceremony brought together military officials, local government leaders, representatives of the Bangsamoro government, police personnel, village officials and other local government agencies to demonstrate their support for the reintegration of the four former armed group members.
Among those who attended and expressed support were Datu Rafsanjani Bimbo Pendatun Ali, a Member of Parliament representing the fifth district of Maguindanao del Sur; Sittie Janine M. Gamao, Peace Program Officer V of the Ministry of Public Order and Safety of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MPOS-BARMM); and Police Capt. Amerkahr C. Sapiin, chief of the Rajah Buayan Municipal Police Station.
Members of the municipal councils and barangay captains also joined the activity, highlighting the role of local communities and public institutions in supporting peacebuilding efforts.
Government assistance to support reintegration
As part of the program, the four returnees received cash assistance and food packs from various government agencies to help address their immediate needs as they begin the transition to civilian life.
They are also expected to participate in seminars and skills training intended to support their reintegration, improve their prospects for a stable livelihood and help them rebuild their lives alongside their families and loved ones.
The assistance forms part of a broader effort to encourage former combatants to pursue peaceful alternatives and reconnect with their communities. However, the long-term success of reintegration will depend on sustained support, access to livelihood opportunities and the ability of the returnees and their families to establish stable lives outside armed groups.
Army urges other armed individuals to choose peace
In his message, Maquida encouraged other armed individuals fighting the government to follow the example of the four former BIFF members and consider returning to civilian life.
He emphasized that the 34th Infantry Battalion, working with local government units, would continue implementing peace initiatives aimed at promoting inclusive development in communities within its area of responsibility.
The battalion’s approach underscores the importance of combining security operations with programs that provide former combatants with opportunities to reintegrate into society and contribute to their communities.
Brual, meanwhile, commended the four returnees for placing their trust in the government and choosing to pursue a peaceful life with their families.
He also thanked the local chief executives of Rajah Buayan and General Salipada K. Pendatun, the district’s parliamentary representative and participating local government agencies for their support for the Balik-Loob initiative.
Sustaining peace through government and community cooperation
The 601st Infantry Brigade said it would continue working with local government units and other agencies to maintain peace and order within its area of responsibility.
The activity highlights the role of coordinated military and civilian efforts in encouraging disengagement from armed groups and supporting the return of former combatants to their communities.
Beyond the ceremony and initial assistance, continued access to training, livelihood support and community-based services will be important in helping the four returnees sustain their transition to civilian life.
Authorities have not disclosed the identities of the four former BIFF members, the specific circumstances of their departure from the armed group or the amount of financial assistance they received.
The Balik-Loob initiative in Maguindanao del Sur reflects the continuing effort to pursue peace through a combination of security measures, government support and local cooperation, with the ultimate goal of building safer and more inclusive communities.