CAMP SIONGCO , Awang, DOS, Maguindanao – Peace was once again given a chance to prevail after a member of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter (BIFF) and five members of the Armed Lawless Group surrendered in the town of Midsayap, Cotabato on September 24 , 2022.
The surrendered BIFF under the Karialan faction was identified only by the alias Gawang while the five ALGs that surrendered included their leader who was identified only by the alias Yang. Yang and his three followers are residents of Brgy. Nes while the other alias Ben lives in Brgy. Rangaban all in the town of Midsayap.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Rey Rico, the Acting Battalion Commander of the 34th Infantry (Reliable) Battalion, the six also surrendered their weapons which include a Caliber.30 Sniper Rifle, three M14 Rifles, two Caliber.30 Garand Rifles, a Caliber.30 M2 Carbine, magazines and ammunition.
Brigadier General Jovencio Gonzales, Commander of the 602nd Brigade represented Colonel Donald Gumiran, the Deputy Commander in presenting the government converts who were former extremist groups to Mayor Rolly Sacdalan, the mayor of the town of Midsayap.
Mayor Sacdalan welcomed the conversion of the six where the step of the six to convert to the government is giving an opportunity for peace to prevail in the town of Midsayap.
The mayor gave each of them P15,000.00 while they received P5,000 in aid from the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office. Also received Food packs, Medical Assistance, Livelihood assistance through goat dispersal and legal advice.
Major General Roy M Galido, the Commander of the 6th Infantry (Army) Division and Joint Task Force Central immediately extended his congratulations on the good decision made by the six. “The fight for peace is not only the job of the soldier and the police, but it is the job of everyone. This step is a way for us to give a good future to the next generation and further develop our country”, said MGen. Galido.
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