Maguindanao del Sur will register 11 recently surrendered terrorists under its Anak na may GInintuang LAyunin, upang Hintuan Ang Violent Extremism Ngayon (AGILA-HAVEN) peace initiative, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Mindanao Command (AFP WestMinCom).
AFP WestMinCom Public Information Office Chief Maj. Orlando Ayllon, Jr. was referring to the members of the Daulah Islamiyah-Turaifie Group (DI-TG), who gave themselves in to the elements of the 6th Infantry Battalion in the province last Friday, June 21.
“This (AGILA-HAVEN) is a platform that gives the former rebels the opportunity to start anew and receive livelihood opportunities and other assistance after successful surrender,” explained Ayllon following the recent development.
He said the surrenderees will also be included in the Tulong ng Gobyernong Nagmamalasakit (TUGON) Program of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) government.
For his part, AFP WestMinCom Commander Lt. Gen. William Gonzales lauded the 6IB for its continuous effort to destabilize the remaining rebel groups in Maguindanao del Sur. He also encouraged the remaining militants to return to the folds of the law and commit to a harmonious life.
“The surrender of the 11 DI-TG members is a testament to the relentless effort of the AFP to end terrorism in the areas inflicted by these rebel groups. We will ensure that this development will go on until terrorism is fully eradicated,” Gonzales said.
Ayllon reported that the surrenderees also handed over to the authorities seven high-powered firearms and four low-powered weapons like pistols and revolvers. These were deposited at 6IB Headquarters for safekeeping and proper disposition.