More Abu Sayyaf expected to surrender
Armed Forces of the Philippines-Western Mindanao Command (AFP-WestMinCom) chief Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana said that they expect more Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) terrorists to surrender as a result of the plans and programs they have initiated to assist those who have turned themselves in.
Sobejana made the remark following the surrender of three ASG members under sub-leader Nur Hassan in Basilan last 21 September 2019.
Khadaffy Kalitut, Aliman Langkasan and Jiyad Arabin turned themselves in to troops of the Army’s 18th Infantry Battalion in Route Perez, Ungkaya Pukan, Basilan Province.
The three also handed over an M16 rifle, a Garand rifle and one M1 carbine to government troops.
“With all the programs and projects we implemented to assist our brothers and sisters who decided to return to the mainstream of society, we expect for more surrenderers in the coming days,” Sobejana said.
“The WestMinCom’s campaign against violent extremism reaps good results as more terrorists yield to the government forces in its area of operation,” he added
According to Sobejana, the successful surrender of the three was also facilitated by Limbo-Upas, Tipo Tipo Barangay Chairman Ismael Dampol.
Meanwhile, 18IB Commander, Lt. Col. Ivan San Jose said that most of the ASG members are now willing to work with them to attain peace and are longing for a good and progressive life with their loved ones.