MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon — In a significant step toward strengthening peace and security in Northern Mindanao, the Bukidnon Police Provincial Office (PPO) on Tuesday led the ceremonial turnover of 20 high-powered firearms surrendered by 13 former rebels who have chosen to abandon armed struggle and return to lawful civilian life.
The activity was spearheaded by Police Colonel Oliver Sotto Navales, Provincial Director of the Bukidnon PPO, as part of the government’s continuing peace and reintegration efforts under the Task Force Balik-Loob Program and the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).
The former combatants, now referred to as Friends Rescued (FRs), voluntarily surrendered their weapons and pledged allegiance to the government, signaling their commitment to peace and development in the province.
During the ceremony, the 1st Special Forces Battalion of the Philippine Army formally turned over 14 firearms, while the 1003rd Maneuver Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10 surrendered six additional firearms. The weapons consisted of assorted high-powered firearms previously used in armed activities.
Authorities said the turnover reflects the growing trust of former insurgents in the government’s peace initiatives and the effectiveness of localized peace engagements in Bukidnon.
The event was held at Camp Captain Ramon M. Onahon in Malaybalay City and was attended by key officials and partner agencies, underscoring the whole-of-government approach to conflict resolution.
Among those present were Ms. Shella Marie C. Albarece, representative of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG); Police Major Romar Jones T. Cahucom, Chief of the Provincial Logistics Unit; and representatives from the 1st Special Forces Battalion, Philippine Army, based in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, and the 1003rd Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10.
In his message, PCOL Navales emphasized that the surrender of firearms and the reintegration of former rebels are crucial in sustaining long-term peace and stability in the province.
“This activity reflects the success of our collaborative efforts with the military, local government units, and partner agencies in encouraging those who once took up arms to choose peace and become productive members of society,” Navales said.
Under the E-CLIP program, former rebels are provided with financial assistance, livelihood support, psychosocial services, and skills training to help them rebuild their lives and reintegrate into their communities.
Officials also assured the FRs of continued government support, stressing that their safety, welfare, and successful transition to civilian life remain top priorities.
The Bukidnon PPO reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying peace-building initiatives and community engagement, noting that the recent surrender serves as a strong indicator of the declining influence of armed groups in the province.
Authorities expressed optimism that more individuals involved in armed movements will be encouraged to lay down their weapons and embrace peaceful and lawful means of pursuing their aspirations, further paving the way for sustainable development and security in Bukidnon.