ZAMBOANGA CITY — Three individuals believed to be members of the Abu Sayyaf Group surrendered and turned over their respective firearms to the military in Talipao, Sulu as a gesture of their sincere intention to return to the folds of the law.
Joint Task Force Sulu commander Maj. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio on Friday revealed that the three submitted themselves to Brig. Gen. Eugene Boquio, commander of the 1101st Infantry Brigade located in Bud Bayug, Talipao, Sulu on Tuesday.
Patrimonio said that the three individuals — who remain unidentified — were supporters of the group led by ASG sub-leader Abduljihad Susukan alias Idang.
The three also turned over one Garand rifle, one Carbine rifle and one Cal .45 pistol.
The surrender of the three ASG members was facilitated through the joint efforts of the 2nd Special Forces Battalion, 41st Infantry Battalion, Tactical Operations Group SulTaw and the 1101st Infantry Brigade.
To recall, the military and the provincial government of Sulu presented a total of 30 ASG returnees to Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr., during the 633rd Bangsa Sug Day on 18 September.
For his part, Armed Forces of the Philippines-Western Mindanao Command chief Maj. Gen. Steve Crespillo said that they welcome all the former violent extremists who decided to give value to their own and their family’s lives.