Tacurong City, Philippines – In a significant development reflecting the success of intensified counter-terrorism efforts, three members of a Local Terrorist Group (LTG) laid down their arms and embraced peace on November 25, 2024. The surrender took place at 8:30 AM at the Mayor’s Office, City Hall Compound, Barangay Poblacion, Tacurong City.
The event was attended by Tacurong City Mayor Joseph George L. Lechonsito, MD, DPA, who reaffirmed the local government’s unwavering support for individuals seeking to reintegrate into society.
Individuals Who Surrendered
The three individuals who surrendered are all members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) Karialan Faction, and they hail from Barangay Pidsandawan, Mamasapano, Maguindanao Del Sur:
- A 37-year-old married farmer from Purok 2, listed as PSR No. 44.
- A 34-year-old married farmer from Purok 3, listed as PSR No. 47.
- A 24-year-old married farmer from Purok 4, not listed in the PSR database.
In addition to surrendering themselves, the individuals turned over a rifle grenade and a caliber .45 firearm.
Collaborative Effort
The surrender was facilitated through an intelligence-driven operation spearheaded by the 1st Sultan Kudarat Provincial Mobile Force Company. The operation was conducted in collaboration with Tacurong City Police Station (CPS), the Sultan Kudarat Provincial Explosive Canine Unit (SKPECU), the Provincial Intelligence Unit (SKPIU), and the 1202nd Regional Mobile Force Battalion 12. It was supervised by Acting Provincial Director PCOL Bernard L. Lao.
Commitment to Peace
PCOL Bernard L. Lao expressed his gratitude to the former LTG members for choosing peace, highlighting the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) efforts to encourage rebels to reintegrate into society. “This surrender demonstrates the success of our collaborative efforts to promote peace and security in the region. We remain steadfast in supporting individuals who decide to leave behind a life of conflict and embrace lawful society,” PCOL Lao said.
Mayor Lechonsito emphasized the city government’s role in assisting former rebels through reintegration programs, providing opportunities to start anew and rebuild their lives.
This successful surrender is seen as a testament to the ongoing efforts of the PNP and local authorities to restore stability and peace in the region while fostering pathways for reconciliation and community reintegration.