CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Four (4) former BIFF combatants surrenders to Joint Task Force Central Forces in Midsayap, North Cotabato on November 22, 2021. The four were presented to Midsayap Mayor Romeo Araña at the Mayor’s Office, Midsayap, North Cotabato.
Lieutenant Colonel Edgardo Vilchez, Commanding Officer of 341B, identified the former BIFF combatants as Sanny Boy Satol Mamalumpong alias Takokan, Ato Menis Sandato alias Ado, Satol Gamblay Butuan, and Darang T Katog all belonging to BIFF Karialan Faction.
Further, said former BIFF combatants surrendered four (4) high-powered firearms which include one (1)M60 barret rifle, two (2) 7.62mm sniper rifles, and one (1) M14 rifle.
Colonel Jovencio Gonzales, Brigade Commander of 602nd Infantry Brigade, disclosed that the surrender was realized with the help of the community whom has been longing for peace in Central Mindanao.
Mayor Araña on his part lauded the move of the former BIFF Combatants and encouraged the others to return to the folds of the law.
Major General Juvymax Uy, Commander of Joint Task Force Central and 6th Infantry Division, expressed his gratitude to the community for helping the government forces in facilitating the surrender of the said personalities. “What is happening right now is an indication that peace can be achieved in Central Mindanao. With strong partnership of the LGUs, communities, and the government forces, our campaign to totally defeat the BIFF and other Local Terrorist Groups can be achieved,” Maj. Gen. Uy said.
The former BIFF combatants will be enrolled with the DIWATA HAVEN Program of North Cotabato, for them to receive livelihood packages and equipment in order for them to live sustainable and peaceful lives with their families.