CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte — Four former rebels, including three members of a communist terrorist group and one local terrorist, surrendered to government forces in South Cotabato amid intensified military operations, the Philippine Army reported on June 11, 2025.
According to Lt. Col. Erwin E. Felongco, commanding officer of the 38th Infantry (We Clear) Battalion, the surrender took place at the battalion’s headquarters in Barangay Kablon, Tupi, South Cotabato. The former rebels, fearing for their safety due to the expanded and strengthened military presence in the area, voluntarily turned themselves in and surrendered their firearms.
The group turned over several weapons including one 7.62mm M14 rifle, one M16 rifle, an M1D Garand sniper rifle, a Carbine, five shotguns, one Uzi, one caliber .22 rifle, two caliber .38 revolvers, a pistol shotgun, and various ammunition.
In addition to the surrendered rebels, local civilians also handed over a total of 11 loose firearms they had been keeping in their homes, reflecting growing public support for peace and security initiatives.
Lt. Col. Felongco presented the four surrenderers to Col. Ronel R. Manalo, Commander of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade, in a formal ceremony held at the 38IB headquarters. The event was attended by key local government and police officials including Anisah A. Abubakar, LPE Head of DSWD Region XII; Marivic Tubo, a representative from the LGU of Polomolok; Barangay Captain Reno Sobrepeña of Koronadal Proper; and PLTC Harold V. Cornel, Chief of Police of Polomolok Municipal Police Station.
The former rebels received immediate assistance in the form of cash aid and food packs from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region XII and the local governments of Polomolok, Tantangan, and Banga.
“Our soldiers’ success is not only measured by the recovery of firearms but also by providing opportunities for those who return to the fold of the law to start anew,” said Col. Manalo during the ceremony.
Meanwhile, Major General Donald M. Gumiran, Commander of the 6th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Central, emphasized that the surrender was the result of the unwavering commitment of government troops to protect communities and promote peace.
“The decision of former rebels to lay down their arms and choose peace is a testament to our success—not just in the fight against terrorism but also in extending the hand of peace and unity to those willing to return to the government’s side,” Gumiran stated.
He added that the military, in partnership with local government units and other sectors, will continue its mission to promote lasting peace and order in Mindanao.