SURRENDER. One of the 16 surrendering members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters hands over his rifle to Mayor Datu Pax Ali Mangudadatu (3rd from left) of Datu Abdullah Sangki, Maguindanao during surrender rites held at the town’s multi-purpose hall on Monday (Aug. 17, 2020). The former rebels said they wanted to start life anew with their families after getting tired of always being on the run from military forces. (Photo courtesy of DAS LGU)
COTABATO CITY – Sixteen members of the Daesh-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters yielded to military and local officials of Datu Abdullah Sangki, Maguindanao on Monday.
The surrenderers, who also brought with them assorted firearms, belong to the BIFF faction of Guiabar Simpal operating in the marshy areas of the province, military officials said.
“They grew tired of fighting a futile cause,” Mayor Datu Pax Ali Mangudadatu told reporters on Monday.
During simple surrender rites held at the town’s multi-purpose hall, the surrenderers yielded two .50-caliber sniper rifles, two .30-caliber Garand rifles, an M14 rifle, an M16 rifle, and a homemade 60-mm mortar launching pad with ammunition.
“We just wanted to go back home to our families and live normal lives again.” Hakim, one of the surrenderers, said in the vernacular.
Maguindanao Governor Bai Mariam Sangki-Mangudadatu said she was elated over the surrender of the BIFF fighters, saying peace "is slowly achieved in hostile parts" of the province. (PNA)
