World · Philippines Bureau
Eleven ex-militants surrender weapons to Army in Maguindanao del Sur
A group of former extremist fighters has laid down arms and surrendered to military authorities in the southern Philippines, marking another step in regional peace and security efforts. The 11 individuals turned over their rifles during a formal ceremony in Datu Piang on Tuesday.
LSN Philippines ·
Eleven former members of extremist organizations surrendered to the Philippine Army and handed over their firearms during a ceremony held at the headquarters of the 38th Infantry Battalion in Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur, on October 27. The ex-combatants were presented to the commander of the Army's 601st Infantry Brigade as part of ongoing disarmament initiatives in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The surrenders underscore continued progress in efforts to reintegrate former militants into civilian life and strengthen security in the conflict-affected region. Military officials have been actively working to encourage members of armed groups to renounce violence and surrender their weapons through various community engagement and rehabilitation programs.
The ceremony in Datu Piang represents the latest in a series of similar surrenders by former extremists across Mindanao. Authorities have emphasized their commitment to supporting the reintegration process and providing assistance to former combatants seeking to return to peaceful civilian pursuits.
The Army's 601st Infantry Brigade continues to coordinate security operations and community programs throughout Maguindanao del Sur as part of broader efforts to maintain stability and promote reconciliation in the region.