SIX members of the terrorist group Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) surrendered to the military in Maguindanao del Sur last Sunday.
The six BIFF men yielded to the Army’s 1st Mechanized Battalion and will be processed for their integration to mainstream society, the military’s Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) said.
They were later presented to 1st Mechanized Brigade commander Brig. Gen. Pedro Balisi Jr and Maguindanao Rep. Mohamad Paglas and other local government officials at the brigade’s headquarters in Datu Saudi Ampatuan in Maguindanao del Sur.
In a statement, Westmincom said the six handed over a 60 mm mortar, an M16 rifle, a Garand rifle, a cal. 30 Carbine rifle, a rocket-propelled grenade launcher with ammunition, an improvised explosive device, and a magazine.
“We welcome the former violent extremists and extend our assistance to them as they return to mainstream society. Rest assured that we will keep them safe as they prepare themselves to become productive members of their respective communities,” said Rojas.
Rojas attributed the success of the military’s campaign against terrorism to the cooperation of stakeholders, including local government units and the people.
“We, the armed forces, share all our gains and successes with our partners and stakeholders, the local government units, and the populace. Let us continue to strengthen our collaborative efforts to end terrorism and sustain stability here in Mindanao,” said Rojas.
