Six former violent extremists (FVEs) surrendered to government forces and turned over firearms during a ceremony in Datu Anggal Midtimbang, Maguindanao del Sur, as part of ongoing efforts to promote peace and security in the province.
The surrender took place on July 29 in Barangay Midtimbang, where the former extremists handed over six high-powered firearms to the 1st Mechanized Infantry (Lakan) Battalion.
During the same activity, residents from the municipalities of Talayan, Guindulungan and Datu Anggal Midtimbang voluntarily surrendered 18 loose firearms, bringing the total number of firearms turned over to 24.
The former extremists and the surrendered weapons were formally presented to 601st Infantry Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Edgar Catu.
The activity forms part of the intensified campaign of the 601st Infantry Brigade and the 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion, in coordination with local government units and other government agencies, to achieve Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) in the area.
The surrenderers also received assistance from government agencies. The Municipal Government of Talayan provided rice assistance, while financial aid was extended by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD) and the Ministry of Public Order and Safety (MPOS).
In a statement, Catu said the voluntary surrender of former armed individuals and their firearms reflects what he described as the growing commitment of local communities to peace, security and development in Maguindanao del Sur.
Authorities said they will continue working with local governments and partner agencies to encourage more voluntary surrenders and support efforts aimed at maintaining peace and stability in the region.
