ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Philippine Army said 12 Abu Sayyaf terrorists surrendered in the southern province of Sulu and were provided livelihood assistance under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.
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| A Philippine Army photo shows some of the Abu Sayyaf terrorists taking their oath of allegiance to the government. |
The terrorists, who surrendered Friday, also yielded seven rifles and two grenade launchers, including two pistols, according to security officials.
Officials said the mass surrender was due to the military’s efforts in convincing Abu Sayyaf members to return to the fold of the law and avail the government’s program
Brig. Gen. Eugenio Boquio, commander of the 1101st Infantry Brigade, those who surrendered were tired of evading military campaigns and often experienced starvation and longing for their families.
Boquiao said the mass surrender was through the efforts of 41st Infantry Battalion led by Lt. Col. Erasmus James Gagni; and 2nd Special Forces under Lt. Col. Benito Ramos. “Their active engagements to the community have been able to convince the ASG members to surrender and avail the government’s program,” he said, adding a total of 65 terrorists had surrendered in Sulu province since January. (Mindanao Examiner)
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