Militants Lay Down Arms in Southern Philippines
In a significant development for peace and security in Mindanao, sixteen members of the extremist groups Dawlah Islamiyah-Hassan Group (DI-HG) and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) have officially abandoned their armed struggle. The individuals surrendered to government forces in Maguindanao del Sur, choosing to reintegrate into mainstream society and embrace a peaceful life.
Formal Surrender and Firearms Turnover
The formal surrender ceremony took place on Wednesday, November 12, at the headquarters of the 6th Infantry Battalion (6IB) located in Barangay Buayan, Datu Piang. Lieutenant Colonel Al Victor Burkley, the commanding officer of the 6IB, confirmed the event. The former combatants were later presented to Brigadier General Edgar Catu, commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade, in a ceremony designed to encourage other remaining fighters to follow their path and return to the legal fold.
The surrendered arsenal was substantial and included a variety of high-powered firearms, demonstrating a tangible reduction in the groups' operational capabilities. The weapons cache consisted of:
- One M16A1 rifle
- Two 60-millimeter mortars
- One sniper rifle
- Four Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG) launchers
- One M79 grenade launcher
- One caliber .38 pistol
- One Fusil Automatique Leger (FAL) rifle
- Two M653 A1 rifles
- One caliber .50 weapon
- One caliber .30 sniper rifle
Military Leaders Hail Courageous Decision for Peace
Brigadier General Edgar Catu praised the surrenderers for their brave choice, emphasizing that their decision to lay down arms was an act of strength, not weakness. "Your decision to return is not a weakness, but true courage to once again live in peace and dignity for your families," Catu stated during the ceremony.
Echoing this sentiment, Major General Jose Vladimir Cagara, commander of the 6th Infantry Division, highlighted the broader implications of this event. He stated that the surrender of the 16 militants serves as clear proof that armed struggle and violence against the government only lead to more suffering and destruction for families and communities, rather than bringing about genuine change.
"The surrender of these compatriots is a clear sign that our peace initiatives and the continued cooperation of local leaders are effective. This is proof that through unity, peace prevails over violence," Major General Cagara affirmed. This event is seen as a positive outcome of the government's sustained peacebuilding efforts and collaboration with local governance in the Bangsamoro region.
