ZAMBOANGA CITY — Sixteen former members of the Dawlah Islamiyah (DI) and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) have surrendered to the Philippine government, vowing to abandon armed conflict and return to civilian life, military officials announced Thursday.

The 16 former fighters, including members of the DI-Hassan Group (di-hg), formally surrendered to soldiers of the 6th Infantry (Redskin) Battalion in Barangay Buayan, Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur, on Wednesday.

Lt. Col. Al Victor Burkley, commanding officer of the 6th Infantry Battalion, said yesterday the former DI-HG and BIFF members also turned over their weapons as a sign of their sincerity in embracing peace.

The cache of high-caliber rifles and war equipment surrendered included an M16A1 Rifle, two 60mm Mortars, one Sniper rifle, four RPGs, one M79 Grenade Launcher, one Caliber .38 Pistol, one FAL Rifle, two M653 A1s, one .50 Caliber and one .30 Caliber Sniper rifle.

Burkley immediately presented the surrenderees to Brig. Gen. Edgar L. Catu, commander of the 601st Infantry (Unifier) Brigade, in a ceremony aimed at persuading the remaining members of the groups to return to the government.

Catu praised the former fighters’ decision to walk the path of peace.

“Your decision to convert is not weakness, but a true courage to live again in peace and dignity for your families,” Catu said.

Meantime, Major General Jose Vladimir R. Cagara, commander of the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division and Joint Task Force Central (JTFC), said the conversion of the 16 rebels was proof that armed struggle only brings suffering and destruction.

“The return of our countrymen was a clear sign that our peace initiatives and the continued cooperation of local leaders are effective. This is proof that through unity, peace will prevail more than violence,” Cagara said.

Among those who attended the rites were Datu Piang Mayor Victor Samama and representatives from nearby towns including Mamasapano, Datu Salibo, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Datu Hoffer and Nabalawag.