SIX members of two terrorist groups surrendered to the military in Maguindanao del Norte last Tuesday, bringing with them six high-powered firearms.
The Zamboanga City-based AFP Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) said the six surrendered at the headquarters of the 1st Brigade Combat Team (BCT) in Barangay Pigcalagan, Sultan Kudarat.
The six were composed of five members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and one member of the Daulah Islamiyah-Turaife Group.
They turned over to the military three 7.62 sniper rifles, a Springfield Garand rifle, a 40mm grenade launcher, and a rocket-propelled grenade launcher.
Westmincom spokesman Maj. Andrew Linao said the six were welcomed by 1st BCT commander Brig. Gen. Leodevic Guinid, and other officials from the military, PNP and local government units.
Maj. Gen. Alex Rillera, 6th Infantry Division commander, said the six are undergoing processing, preparatory to their enrolment to the government’s reintegration program.
Westmincom commander Lt. Gen. Roy Galido reiterated his appeal to members of the terrorist groups to return to the fold of government.
“We are encouraging the remaining militants to lay down their arms and join the government in working for the coveted peace and progress here in Mindanao,” said Galido.
