3 suspected terrorists surrender weapons to Marines

Three suspected terrorists from local militant groups surrendered to Philippine Marines on Wednesday, July 2, turning over two 60mm mortar tubes and one rocket-propelled grenade launcher with a live round.

Two of the extremists were part of a faction of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) under Kagi Karialan, while one was from the Dawlah Islamiyah (DI)-Hassan Group.

The surrender stemmed from factors such as combat fatigue, family pressure, and fear of ongoing military operations following the March 17 neutralization of four individuals including Mustapha Kasan, alias 'Abu Saiden'.

DI-Hassan members are reportedly hiding in Sitio Palau, Barangay Barira, Maguindanao del Norte, with their base located in the marshland of Maguindanao del Sur.

Each surrendered militant received immediate aid including cash and a grocery package provided by MBLT-2 and stakeholders to support reintegration procedures.