3 extremists surrender to PH Marines in Maguindanao del Norte

Three local extremists, two from the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and one from the Dawlah Islamiya (DI)-Hassan Group, surrendered to the Philippine Marines in Maguindanao del Norte, yielding two 60mm mortar launchers and an RPG launcher.

The surrender was attributed to combat fatigue, family pressure, and fear of ongoing military operations.

The BIFF and DI groups are known for violent activities including bomb-making, targeted killings, and terrorism.

The DI-Hassan Group, led by Emarudin Kulaw Kasan and his father Mustapha Kasan, has members operating in Barangay Barira, Maguindanao del Norte.

Mustapha Kasan was neutralized in a military raid on March 17, and his son Emarudin reportedly vowed revenge after his father's death.

The surrender was facilitated through the intercession of officials from Marine Battalion Landing Team-2 (MBLT-2) of the 1st Marine Brigade and local executives.

Brig. Gen. Romulo D. Quemado, commander of the 1st Marine Brigade, and Army Major Gen. Donald M. Gumiran of the 6th Infantry Division, expressed gratitude to local leaders for their role in the surrender.