Six members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters laid down their arms and returned to the fold of the law just the otherd ay.
The former violent extremists submitted themselves and handed over their firearms and other war materials to Lt. Col. Jayson Domingo, Commanding Officer of the 1st Mechanized Battalion. They were subsequently presented to Brig. Gen. Pedro Balisi, Jr., Commander of the 1st Mechanized Brigade; Maguindanao del Sur 2nd District Representative, Congressman Mohamad “Tong” Paglas; Maguindanao Del Sur Provincial Administrator, Atty. Cyrus Torreña; and Agila Haven Focal Person, Mr. Roger Dionisio at the 1st Mech Bn headquarters in Barangay Kabengi, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao Del Sur.
According to Brig. Gen. Balisi, the surrendered personalities handed over one 60mm Mortar, one M16A1 rifle, one Garand rifle, one cal. 30 Carbine rifle, one long magazine, one rocket-propelled grenade with one ammunition, and one improvised explosive device. He also disclosed that the former violent extremists are members of the BIFF-Karialan Faction.
Brig. Gen. Arturo Rojas, Acting Commander of the Western Mindanao Command commended the troops of the 1st Mechanized Brigade for this laudable accomplishment. “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.”
“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,” Brig. Gen. Rojas added. (VICTOR BALDEMOR RUIZ)
