Eleven Moro, communist terrorists surrender to Philippine army
They also turn over various firearms.
MAGUINDANAO DEL SUR: Eleven Moro and communist terrorists separately surrendered authorities in the southern provinces of Maguindanao del Sur and Sultan Kudarat, according to the military.
Below are press releases from the army’s 6th Infantry Division on the matter.
High Ranking CTG Leader and 5 Followers Presented to Commander WestMinCom in Sultan Kudarat
Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat: Six (6) Former CTG members who surrendered to 37th Infantry (Conqueror) Battalion were presented to LtGen William Gonzales PA, the Commander of Western Mindanao Command, during his official visit at Headquarters 603rd (Persuader) Brigade, Barangay Milbuk, Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat on November 13, 2023.
Also present during the presentation of FRs are MGen Alex S Rillera PA, Commander of 6ID, PA; BGen Michael Santos PA, Commander of 603rd Bde; BGen Taharudin Ampatuan PA, ADC of 11th Infantry Division; and Hon. Joenime Kapina, Municipal Mayor of Palimbang.
LtCol John Paul Baldomar, Commanding Officer of 37th IB, disclosed that said group of former rebels was led by alias Tata, the CO of Dabu-Dabu Platoon of the CTG's Regional Headquarters of Far South Mindanao Region. The six also surrendered with them four (4) 5.56mm M16 Rifles, one (1) 7.62mm M14 Rifle, one (1) cal.38 revolver, and one (1) anti-personnel landmine.
During the presentation, Hon. Kapina extended cash and food assistance and hygiene kits to the former rebels as initial packages to help them start a peaceful and normal life.
MGen Gonzales also thanked the six former rebels for choosing the way of peace and returning to the folds of the law. He further urged them to contact and encourage the remaining CTG members to lay down their arms and be reunited and peacefully live with their families.
Former BIFF-KF Members Embrace Peace: A Historic Turn of Events in Maguindanao del Sur
CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, DOS, Maguindanao del Norte: Five former Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF-KF) members voluntarily returned to the government particularly at 33IB Headquarters in Barangay Zapakan, Radjah Buayan, Maguindanao del Sur on November 14, 2023. Clad in combat gear, their decision marks a vital stride towards community stability
During the event, Hon. Datu Anwarudin “Macky” Ampatuan, representing Mayor Akmad Ampatuan, Jr., of Mamasapano, expressed gratitude for the return of these individuals. He urged remaining comrades to consider surrendering, highlighting that violence hinders progress. “Mamasapano's local government is ready to assist those seeking peaceful lives with their families”.
Brigadier General Oriel L Pangcog PA, 601st Brigade Commander, appreciated collaboration with local governments and emphasized the military's need for civilian support. Stressing the importance of ending violence, he expressed backing from the Bangsamoro government.
The former BIFF-KF members' return symbolizes advancements in security and community development, emphasizing the importance of unity. Community acceptance and government support create opportunities for positive transformation. The 33rd Infantry (Makabayan) Battalion continues its commitment to fostering a peaceful and orderly community, working towards justice and prosperity.
Major General Alex S. Rillera, Commander of the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division and Joint Task Force Central, commended the 33IB and the 601st Brigade for facilitating the journey of these former rebels toward peace. He stated, “This is your opportunity for a secure life with loved ones and contribution to national development.”