By AARON B. RECUENCO
A sub-commander of the notorious Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and nine of his followers have surrendered to the military in Sumisip town of Basilan.
Brig. Gen. Juvymax Uy, commander of Joint Task Force Basilan, said Bobong Mastul and his men also turned over their firearms to the military during their surrender.
Aside from Mastul, those who surrendered were Atotong Sarahadil, Mudzrie Salahudin Jabbon, Sapwan Kapitan Aliman, Nassir Jaid Tahil, Hair Tiglama Kawakibon, Adeh Kawakibon, Rubin Ikih, Aminin Baliyong, and Suedin Muril.
“They brought with them three M16 rifles, an M79 grenade launcher, an Ingram sub-machine pistol, a 5.56mm carbine, an M1 Garand rifle, various magazines and ammunitions for the said firearms, and assorted communication equipment,” said Uy.
President Duterte has encouraged the Abu Sayyaf to surrender and enjoy the benefits being offered to the communist rebels who would surrender.
The benefits include livelihood program, cash and payment for every firearm they would surrender. Recently, Duterte is eyeing free housing to the communist rebels who would surrender.
The move is a 180-degree turn from the all-out war approach against the Abu Sayyaf in yhe past.
Uy said those who surrendered are still in the custody of the military for profiling, custodial debriefing, and proper documentation of the turned-over firearms.
“They will then be integrated with the ‘Balik-loob’ program of the government,” said Uy.
