16/02/2026
PNP WELCOMES SURRENDER OF 5 BIFF MEMBERS, WEAPONS TURNED OVER
In a major step toward lasting peace and security in Mindanao, five members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) from two separate factions voluntarily surrendered to authorities on February 13, 2026, turning over high-powered weapons including RPG launchers and a 60mm mortar in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte.
The ceremonial surrender took place at the Municipal Hall in Brgy. Dalumangcob, marking another significant accomplishment aligned with the PNP Focused Agenda, carried out through the Enhanced Managing Police Operations (EMPO) strategy.
According to the report, those who surrendered include one individual listed under the Periodic Status Report (PSR) affiliated with the BIFF-Bungos faction, and four individuals from the BIFF-Karialan faction. All five expressed their intent to abandon armed struggle and return to peaceful civilian life.
During the surrender, the group also turned over several high-powered fi****ms and explosive weapons, including rocket-propelled gr***de launchers and ammunition, an improvised long firearm, and a mortar.
All surrendered fi****ms and ammunition were secured by police personnel and brought to the Sultan Kudarat Municipal Police Station for documentation and proper disposition through concerned units.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. welcomed the development, calling it a strong sign that peace-building efforts in conflict-affected communities are gaining ground.
“This surrender is a clear message that more and more individuals are choosing peace over violence. Mas mahalaga ang buhay na tahimik kaysa sa buhay na laging tumatakbo at nagtatago,” said PGEN Nartatez.
He emphasized that the PNP remains committed not only to neutralizing threats, but also to supporting pathways for reintegration.
“We will continue to strengthen our security operations, but at the same time, we will support opportunities for those who sincerely want to return to the fold of the law. Kapag handa silang magbago, handa rin tayong tumulong,” he added.
The surrender was facilitated through the combined efforts of PNP units in the area, alongside personnel from specialized and regional support elements who ensured the safe and orderly turnover of the weapons.
PGEN Nartatez also stressed that preventing armed groups from retaining heavy weapons is critical to protecting communities.
“Malaking bagay ito dahil nababawasan ang mga armas na maaaring magamit sa karahasan, at mas napapalakas ang seguridad sa komunidad .This is a win for public safety,” he said.
The Chief PNP PGEN Nartatez assured the public that the organization will continue working with local government units, communities, and partner agencies to sustain peace initiatives and prevent armed recruitment.
“Hindi lang ito tungkol sa operasyon—ito ay tungkol sa pagbibigay ng mas ligtas na kinabukasan para sa bawat pamilya sa Mindanao,” PGEN Nartatez said.
The PNP reiterated its call for other members of armed groups to follow the same path, emphasizing that lasting peace can only be achieved when communities are free from fear and violence.
This accomplishment reflects the PNP’s continuing commitment to public safety and national security under the banner of Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman, as it strengthens peace and order efforts through focused, responsive, and community-centered police operations.
(PNP-PIO)