(Photo courtesy from 34IB)
COTABATO CITY – Four members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) surrendered to government forces on Tuesday, October 20, through the joint efforts of the Philippine Army and two local government units (LGUs) in Maguindanao del Sur.
Lt. Col. Williard Maquida, commander of the Army’s 34th Infantry Battalion (34IB), said Wednesday that the former combatants were formally presented to Brig. Gen. Gremel Brual, commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade, during surrender ceremonies in Rajah Buayan.
The surrender was facilitated in coordination with the local governments of Rajah Buayan and General Salipada K. Pendatun, headed by Mayors Bai Maruja Ampatuan Mastura and Mielyn Ali, respectively.
The activity was conducted under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP), a government initiative administered by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to help former rebels reintegrate into society.
Under the program, qualified former combatants may receive financial assistance, livelihood support, and other services to help them transition to civilian life.
Maquida said the four former BIFF members initially received cash assistance and food packs from government agencies.
“The four former BIFF members received cash assistance and food packs from various government agencies as initial assistance to help them rebuild their lives,” he said.
He added that the surrenderers are expected to participate in seminars and skills training programs to improve their livelihood opportunities and help their families achieve financial stability.
Maquida encouraged other armed individuals to abandon violence and return to mainstream society, assuring them that the military would continue working with local governments to support peace and development initiatives.
Meanwhile, Brual welcomed the surrender of the four former combatants, commending their decision to leave the armed group and pursue peaceful lives with their families.
He also acknowledged the support of the two municipal governments, the district representative, and other government agencies involved in facilitating the surrender and providing assistance.
Brual reaffirmed the military’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with LGUs and government agencies to sustain peace, security, and development in Maguindanao del Sur.
