The Armed Forces of the Philippines has assured that rebels who wish to surrender to the folds of the government "will experience better life outside the combat zones," according to Western Mindanao Command chief Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr.
He also urged the remaining Abu Sayyaf Group members operating in the Sulu province to lay down their arms and yield to the government.
"The government through the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the local government units has prepared reintegration and livelihood programs to those who have surrendered and will surrender to ensure that they will not be lured with ill beliefs and practices again," Rosario said.
To recall, a 23-year-old member of the Sulu-based Abu Sayyaf Group surrendered to the Philippine Army's 2nd Special Forces Battalion over the weekend and the former rebel cited the hardships he experience on the battlefields which pushed him to surrender to the government forces.
Surenderees will undergo a local social integration program.
A total of 179 ASG personalities have already surrendered since January this year. Of the number, 141 were regular members while 38 were supporters.
