In a significant development for peace and security in the southern Philippines, thirteen members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) have voluntarily surrendered to government forces in Maguindanao del Sur. The surrender took place on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the headquarters of the Army’s 38th Infantry Battalion in Datu Piang, marking a pivotal moment in ongoing efforts to resolve regional conflicts.
Surrender and Weapon Handover
The BIFF members turned over a substantial cache of high-powered firearms and explosives to military authorities, underscoring their commitment to abandoning armed struggle. Lieutenant Colonel Erwin Felongco, commander of the 38th Infantry Battalion, formally presented the surrenderers to Brigadier General Edgar Catu, commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade. The surrendered war equipment included two 81-millimeter mortars, two 60-millimeter mortars, an M79 grenade launcher, a Rocket-Propelled Grenade, a 7.62-millimeter sniper rifle, three .9-millimeter Uzi submachine guns, a grenade, and three magazines.
Path to Reintegration
Expressing a strong desire to live peacefully, the BIFF surrenderers received initial financial assistance and were recommended for inclusion in the Tulong ng Gobyernong Nagmamalasakit (Tugon) program. This initiative, managed by the Bangsamoro’s Ministry of Interior and Local Government (MILF), aims to facilitate their reintegration into society through support services and community-based interventions.
Military and Community Cooperation
Brigadier General Edgar Catu highlighted the robust collaboration between the military, police, local governments, and the community that enabled this surrender. He emphasized, "This shows the power of unity and cooperation. We encourage others to emulate this towards a more peaceful and safe community." Major General Jose Vladimir Cagara, commander of the 6th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force-Central, echoed this sentiment, stating that the voluntary surrender demonstrates the community’s resolve to address conflicts peacefully and strengthens trust between citizens and the government.
Witnesses and Support
The surrender ceremony was witnessed by a broad coalition of stakeholders, including police from Sultan Sa Barongis, representatives from local government units in Sultan sa Barongis, Datu Salibo, Mamasapano, and Shariff Aguak, as well as Bangsamoro agencies such as the MILF, Ministry of Social Services and Development, and Ministry of Public Order and Security. This collective presence underscores the multifaceted approach to peacebuilding in the region, combining security measures with social and governmental support to foster lasting stability.
