MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur--Two (2) members of the Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group (DI-MG) terrorist group embraced peace and surrendered to JTG HARIBON in Kampo Ranao, this city, Wednesday, September 1.

They were identified as alias MOSAB, 19 years old, resident of Brgy Kalangnan in the municipality of Piagapo, and alias HODAIFA, resident of Brgy. Tambo, also in Piagapo. 

Their surrender is a result of the joint efforts of JTG HARIBON under Brig. Gen. Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II and the local government unit of Piagapo led by the Vice Mayor Hon. Ali L. Sumandar.

MOSAB revealed that he was forced sometime in January, this year, to join the terrorist group by the DI-MG. He was involved in sowing atrocities in the province to include numerous firefights against government forces that caused fear and even displaced some families in the hinter areas of Madalum and Piagapo in Lanao del Sur and Munai and Tangcal in Lanao del Norte.

Likewise, HODAIFA left the group this year upon realizing the deceptive intent of the DI-MG of capitalizing on violent extremism as the true Jihad. He was part of the group that terrorized and attacked Marawi City in 2017.

The two surrenderees brought with them two M-16 rifles with ammunition.

Cuerpo, also the commander of the 103rd Infantry (HARIBON) Brigade, assured that their safety and their well-being will be given utmost priority. He also emphasized that each life saved from the violent influence of the terrorists is a worthy undertaking.

"The 103rd Infantry Brigade along with the local government of Lanao del Sur will continue to encourage terrorists to surrender and settle down with their families, dedicate their lives to peace and development, and become productive citizens of the province," he said.

Meanwhile, Vice Mayor Sumandar urged the remaining DI-MG members to surrender. He also encouraged the residents to report to the nearest military unit or to the 103rd Infantry Brigade on the presence of the terrorist group in their area. (103rd Infantry Brigade)