16 more Abu Sayyaf members surrender in Talipao —JTF Sulu

Sixteen more members of the Abu Sayyaf Group ASG) have surrendered to security forces under the 11th Infantry Division in Barangay Samak in Talipao, Sulu, the Joint Task Force -Sulu said Saturday.

According to the task force, those who surrendered are former followers of ASG sub-leaders  Hairula Asbang, Idang Susukan, Apo Mike, Raden Abu, Ben Wagas, Alden Bagadi, and Mujib Susukan.

Also, they yielded three rifles, an M203 grenade launcher,  a cal .30 bolt action rifle, a cal .38 handgun, a cal .45 handgun, as well as two improvised explosive devices and M203 ammunition.

"Initially, they were unarmed [members] and after they had experienced an encounter, they were eventually pushed to get more involved in terror groups' wrongdoings,” Brigadier General Antonio Bautista Jr. said in a statement.

“It came to a point where they were tasked to keep these IEDs. Fortunately, the convergence of efforts of the AFP and the local government of Sulu has successfully convinced these people to leave the ASG," he added.

Meanwhile, Major General William Gonzales said the military is willing to provide support, so long as the former rebels will keep their vow to promote peace and follow the law.

“Sa araw na to, ako rin ay nanunumpa na hindi kayo maiiwan sa napakagandang kinabukasan ng Sulu. Ang mga tulong na natatanggap niyo, pauna lamang yan. Napakarami nating nakakausap sa gobyerno na handang magbigay ng tulong at gabayan kayo," Gonzales said.

(This day, I also vow that you will not be left behind as Sulu marches to progresses. The help you have received is only the start. We are in talks with several individuals in the government that are ready to extend their help and guidance.)  —Joahna Lei Casilao/LBG, GMA News