Politics · Philippines Bureau
Four BIFF fighters lay down arms in Maguindanao del Sur surrender
Four members of the proscribed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters have surrendered their weapons to military authorities in Maguindanao del Sur, joining the government's reintegration initiative. The fighters turned themselves in on Tuesday as part of the Balik-Loob Program.
LSN Philippines ·
COTABATO CITY — Four operatives of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) have surrendered their firearms to military commanders in Maguindanao del Sur, marking another development in the government's peace and reconciliation efforts in Mindanao.
Lt. Col. Williard Maquida, commanding officer of the Army's 34th Infantry Battalion, presented the four fighters to Brig. Gen. Gremel Brual, commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade, during a turnover ceremony held Tuesday. The individuals surrendered under the Balik-Loob Program, a government initiative designed to encourage rebels to lay down arms and reintegrate into civilian life.
The program, which translates to "Return to the Fold," has become a key component of security operations in the Bangsamoro region, offering former combatants pathways to peace and economic reintegration. Officials have credited the initiative with gradually reducing armed group activities in volatile southern provinces.
The BIFF, designated as a terrorist organization by Philippine and international authorities, has been responsible for multiple attacks across Mindanao over the past decade. The group's splinter factions have been particularly active in the Cotabato provinces, prompting sustained military operations throughout the region.