MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon — Three former rebels, now referred to as “Friends Rescued” (FRs), voluntarily surrendered eight high-powered firearms in a ceremonial turnover held at Camp Captain Ramon M. Onahon on March 24, 2026, marking another milestone in the government’s ongoing peace and reintegration efforts in Northern Mindanao.
The ceremony was led by Police Colonel Oliver S. Navales, Provincial Director of the Bukidnon Police Provincial Office, alongside key officials from partner agencies. Among those present were Shella Marie C. Albarece, representative of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Police Major Romar Joes T. Cahucom, Chief of the Provincial Logistics Unit, and 2nd Lieutenant Danica Rosa, Officer-in-Charge for Logistics of the 8th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army.
Authorities said the surrender of firearms underscores the continuing success of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which encourages members of armed groups to abandon insurgency and reintegrate into mainstream society.
The three FRs reportedly made the conscious decision to renounce armed struggle and return to the folds of the law through the Task Force Balik-Loob Program, a national initiative aimed at providing former rebels with livelihood assistance, financial aid, and other support mechanisms to help them rebuild their lives.
Officials emphasized that the voluntary turnover of high-powered weapons not only reduces the threat of violence in conflict-affected communities but also strengthens public trust in government peacebuilding programs.
“The cooperation of former rebels and the community is vital in sustaining peace and development in Bukidnon,” Navales said, reiterating the police force’s commitment to maintaining law and order in close coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
The Bukidnon Police Provincial Office and the Philippine Army continue to intensify joint efforts to promote stability in the province, urging remaining insurgents to take advantage of the government’s reintegration programs.
Authorities also credited the growing support of local communities, noting that public cooperation has been instrumental in encouraging more individuals to surrender and choose a peaceful path forward.
With the latest surrender, security forces expressed optimism that more members of armed groups will follow suit, further paving the way for long-term peace, security, and socio-economic development in Bukidnon.