Four individuals identified as Friends Rescued (FRs) have formally begun their transition toward civilian life after surrendering to government authorities and taking an oath of allegiance during a ceremony at the Municipal Hall of T’boli, South Cotabato, on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.
The four, identified only by their aliases Ma’damil, Bob, Queen, and JM, were formally presented, together with their surrendered firearms, to Brig. Gen. Manuel Leo Q. Gador of the Philippine Army’s 603rd Infantry “Persuader” Brigade and T’boli Mayor Keo Dayle T. Tuan.
The surrender and presentation of their firearms marked their decision to abandon armed involvement and pursue a peaceful path through the government’s reintegration efforts.
During the ceremony, the four individuals took their Oath of Allegiance, formally expressing their commitment to uphold the law, respect government authority, and contribute positively to their respective communities.
Mayor Tuan welcomed the four and handed them initial cash assistance as they began their transition back into civilian society. He commended their decision to surrender, describing it as a significant step toward rebuilding their lives and restoring their place in their communities.
The mayor also assured them of the municipal government’s continuing support through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which provides assistance to former members of armed groups as they reintegrate into mainstream society.
Tuan likewise reaffirmed the local government’s commitment to working with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in sustaining peace and supporting initiatives aimed at ending local armed conflict.
For his part, Brig. Gen. Gador praised the four for choosing peace over continued armed involvement, emphasizing that the government remains committed to its campaign to end local communist and other armed conflicts through a combination of security operations and community-based peace initiatives.
“To our friends rescued: Welcome to your new life. Sana ay magsilbi itong ehemplo sa mga kasamahan ninyo na nasa itaas pa. Our doors remain open,” Gador said, encouraging others who remain involved in armed groups to consider returning to the fold of the law.
The brigade commander also recognized the efforts of the 105th Infantry “Saifullah” Battalion, led by Lt. Col. Erikzen C. Dacoco, whose personnel facilitated the surrender.
He commended the Saifullah Troopers for their role in bringing the four individuals back into the government’s peace and reintegration process, describing soldiers as more than combatants.
“You have proven that you are not just warriors, but dedicated nation-builders,” Gador said.
The ceremony highlighted the role of cooperation between military units and local governments in encouraging individuals involved in armed groups to abandon violence and pursue peaceful alternatives.
Beyond the immediate surrender, the availability of sustained reintegration assistance will be crucial in helping the four rebuild their lives, secure legitimate livelihood opportunities, and establish productive relationships within their communities.
The 603rd Infantry Brigade reiterated its commitment to working with local chief executives, peace partners, and communities to advance lasting peace and sustainable development in Central Mindanao and other areas under its operational jurisdiction.