Manila: Eight members of violent extremist groups voluntarily surrendered to the government and turned over eight high-powered firearms during a Balik-Loob (Return-to-the-Fold) Program held at the headquarters of the Army's 90th Infantry Battalion (90IB) in Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur on Thursday afternoon.
According to Philippines News Agency, the former extremists, members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and Dawlah Islamiya, were presented by the 90IB to Brig. Gen. Edgar L. Catu, assistant division commander of the 6th Infantry Division (6ID) and commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade (601Bde).
As part of the reintegration program, the surrenderers received immediate cash and rice assistance from the local government unit, the Bangsamoro Ministry of Social Services and Development, and the Ministry of Public Order and Safety. The assistance is intended to support their reintegration into society and provide them with an opportunity to rebuild their lives and live peacefully with their families.
"The surrender of the extremists and voluntary firearm turnover marked a significant achievement for the government, military, their families, and communities," Catu said in a statement on Friday. The development shows that more people are choosing peace over violence, he said, urging the remaining members of armed groups to follow the same path to promote lasting peace and sustainable development in their communities.
Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Vladimir R. Cagara, commander of the 6ID and the acting commander of the Western Mindanao Command, commended the troops of the 90IB and the 601Bde for their sustained efforts in implementing peace-building initiatives. He encouraged the remaining members of violent extremist groups to lay down their arms and return to the fold of the law to begin peaceful lives with their families.
Cagara urged the public to support security forces to maintain peace and safety, especially as the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) prepares for its Sept. 14 parliamentary elections.
