Former Moro Extremists Surrender Firearms, Embrace Peace in Maguindanao del Sur

COTABATO CITY – On Wednesday afternoon, eighteen former Moro extremist fighters voluntarily surrendered their weapons to the Philippine Army in Maguindanao del Sur, citing fatigue from ongoing military offensives, an Army spokesperson revealed Thursday.

The surrender took place at the 92nd Infantry Battalion (92IB) headquarters in Datu Saudi Ampatuan, where Lt. Col. Christian V. Cabading, commander of the 92IB, formally presented the former combatants and their surrendered firearms to Maj. Gen. Ramon P. Zagala, commander of the 2nd Infantry Division stationed in Camp Capinpin, Tanay, Rizal.

These individuals were previously affiliated with the Dawlah Islamiyah (DI) and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), groups active in Maguindanao del Sur, particularly in Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Shariff Aguak, and Mamasapano.

In a statement, Lt. Col. Cabading remarked, "Their choice to give up arms and reintegrate into lawful society exemplifies courage, the spirit of reconciliation, and hope for a renewed life with their loved ones and communities."

Aside from the firearms surrendered by these former militants, the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) program also received 24 additional loose firearms. The collection included an array of weaponry such as rocket-propelled grenades, sniper rifles, grenade launchers, shotguns, pistols, and revolvers.

"Every weapon turned in diminishes the tools of violence and brings us closer to safer communities," Cabading added.

During the surrender ceremony, Maj. Gen. Zagala emphasized the crucial role of education in achieving sustainable peace. He addressed the former extremists, stating, "We eradicate ignorance and prejudice through education."

Zagala highlighted that knowledge empowers communities to break free from the cycle of violence and misinformation exploited by extremist groups. He encouraged the former combatants to ensure their children take full advantage of the government’s free education programs, identifying education as the key to personal and communal growth.

Praising the surrenderers for their courageous decision to select peace over conflict, Zagala applauded their willingness to pursue a fresh start for themselves and their families.

He also lauded the 92nd Infantry Battalion for surpassing mission goals, particularly through peace-building initiatives that have strengthened community trust and security in the area.