CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao del Norte — Government troops formally deployed community support teams and presented two former violent extremists who surrendered to authorities during a ceremony aimed at strengthening peace and security efforts in parts of Maguindanao del Sur.
The activities were held at the headquarters of the 38th Infantry (We Clear) Battalion and were led by its commanding officer, Lt. Col. Erwin Felongco. The event featured the Send-Off Ceremony for the Municipal Community Support Sustainment Program (MCSSP) teams and the public presentation of former violent extremists (FVEs) who recently returned to the fold of the law.
The send-off ceremony was presided over by Brig. Gen. Edgar L. Catu, commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade, who led the deployment of soldiers tasked with providing support to local communities and strengthening cooperation between government agencies, security forces, and residents.
Representatives from various local government units and law enforcement agencies attended the event, including the mayor of Datu Piang, officials from the municipal governments of Datu Salibo and Mamasapano, and the chief of police of the Datu Piang Municipal Police Station.
The MCSSP teams are expected to work closely with communities to sustain peace-building initiatives, assist in delivering government services, and strengthen partnerships with local stakeholders.
During the second part of the program, two individuals identified as former violent extremists were formally presented to the public after voluntarily surrendering to government authorities. As a sign of their commitment to return to peaceful civilian life, the two turned over several firearms, including a Barrett caliber .50 rifle with one magazine and an M14 rifle with one magazine.
Following their surrender, the returnees received immediate assistance from various government agencies to support their reintegration into society. Aid included financial support, rice supplies, and grocery packages provided by the Ministry of Social Services and Development, the Municipal Social Welfare Office of Datu Salibo, the Municipal Peace and Order Secretariat, the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government through its TUGON program, and the provincial government of Maguindanao del Sur, along with the local governments of Datu Piang and Datu Salibo.
Catu emphasized that cooperation among the military, local government units, and communities plays a crucial role in achieving long-term peace and stability in conflict-affected areas.
He said the support extended by various government agencies demonstrates the government’s openness to individuals who wish to abandon violence and rebuild their lives as productive members of society.
Catu also urged residents and local leaders to continue working together in sustaining peace and promoting development in their communities.
Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Jose Vladimir R. Cagara, commander of Joint Task Force Central and the 6th Infantry Division, stressed the importance of continuing peace programs such as the MCSSP and reintegration initiatives for former extremists.
Cagara said such programs are vital in preventing the resurgence of violence and in encouraging other individuals who may still be involved in armed groups to surrender and take advantage of the government’s reintegration assistance.
Military officials said the activities reflect the continuing commitment of the government, armed forces, and police to promote peace, development, and unity among communities across Maguindanao del Sur.