8 BIFF men surrender in Maguindanao

COTABATO CITY, Philippines — Eight members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) surrendered to the military on Friday.

Omar Kusain, alleged henchman of BIFF leader Kagui Karialan, and Karno Datukan, Weng Aliman, Jowie Buludan, Allan Lauriano, Aladin Duwang, Kie Basalan and Norsamin Abedin, who were identified with the group of Imam Bongos, turned themselves in to the 57th Infantry Battalion.

Maj. Gen. Alex Rillera, 6th Infantry Division commander, said police, military and local government officials helped convince the eight BIFF members to return to the fold of law.

The surrenderees turned over four assault rifles, two launchers for 40-millimeter grenade projectiles, a 9mm pistol, four 12-gauge shotguns and improvised explosive devices.

Meanwhile, 55 former members of the Abu Sayyaf each received P10,000 in cash assistance and food packs in support of their livelihood program.

Col. Domingo Robles Jr., 11th Infantry Division assistant chief of staff for civil-military operations, said the assistance is under Project TUGON or Tulong ng Gobyernong Nagmamalasakit of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao regional office.