Wednesday, January 12, 2022

BIFF member surrenders in Cotabato

From the Manila Times (Jan 8, 2022): BIFF member surrenders in Cotabato (By Julmunir Jannaral)



A member of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter (BIFF) has returned to the fold of the law. Seck Panday (center), a member of the BIFF-Karialan Faction, surrendered to Col. Jovencio Gonzales (4th from right), commander of the 602nd Infantry Brigade. The surrender ceremony was held in Barangay Salunayan, Midsayap, Cotabato Province. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

A member of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) laid down his arm and returned to the folds of the law in Cotabato on Wednesday.

According to WestMinCom Commander Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr., the surrendered personality was identified as alias Seck Panday, a member of the BIFF-Karialan Faction who appeared to be tired and weary.

"He submitted himself and handed over his M16A1 rifle to Col. Jovencio Gonzales, commander of the 602nd Infantry Brigade (602IB) and Lt. Col. Edgardo Vilchez Jr., commanding officer of the 34th Infantry Battalion (34IB) in Barangay Salunayan, Midsayap, Cotabato," Rosario added.

According to Gonzales, Panday was subsequently presented to Midsayap Mayor Romeo Arana. "He will be included in the list of beneficiaries of livelihood packages to help him start anew so that he will not be lured to join the group again," the brigade commander further stated.

The surrender was made possible through the joint efforts of the 34IB, Philippine National Police Midsayap, and the intelligence units. The 34IB is currently facilitating the custodial debriefing to the surrendered personality.


READ: BIFF leader, 5 followers give up to Armed Forces

Based on the report, the former violent extremist grew tired of hiding and running for his life as the military intensified its operations in the area, hence his surrender.

Joint Task Force Central (JTFC) Commander Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy lauded the 602IB and its subordinate units for the numerous accomplishments, particularly in convincing several BIFF personalities to end their armed struggle.

In 2021, JTFC reported a total of 189 BIFF surrenders in Central Mindanao.

"This is a good start for the new year. Rest assured that the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) will continue to accomplish its mandates until we achieve sustained peace and development in Western Mindanao." Rosario emphasized.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2022/01/08/news/regions/biff-member-surrenders-in-cotabato/1828544

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