Isabela City, Basilan — Three supporters of the Abu Sayyaf militant group surrendered to government authorities following backchannel negotiations to join the national reintegration program, officials said.

The surrenderers also turned over 18 high-powered firearms, according to the Association of Reservists and Reservist Administrators of the Philippines, Inc. (ARRAPI), which facilitated the talks.

Brig. Gen. Michael Romero and ARRAPI officials called the surrender a significant milestone in the government’s campaign to bring lasting peace and security to the province.

The turned-over weaponry included six M16 rifles, three M2 carbine rifles, three M1 Garand rifles, two 60mm grenade launchers, and four .45-caliber handguns.

The former supporters and weapons were formally transferred to the Philippine Army’s 1101st Infantry Brigade, led by Brig. Gen. Frederick Sales, for processing under the government’s peace and reintegration initiative.

The backchannel talks began when the three individuals reached out to ARRAPI through its network in Basilan and Zamboanga. They expressed a desire to renounce their former affiliations, clear their names, and return to civilian life.

Along with Romero, the negotiation group included Col. Vlad Mata, Col. Meliton Agpaoa, and Basilan Governor Mujiv Hataman. Local supporters credit Sales as a key driver of reconciliation efforts in the region for encouraging Abu Sayyaf members and supporters to lay down their arms.

Military and local officials attended the formal turnover ceremony, including Western Mindanao Command Deputy Commander Brig. Gen. Aldrin Annani, Task Force Orion Commander Brig. Gen. Adriano Duadico, Engineering Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Enyong Hernandez, Tuburan Mayor Durie Kallahal, and Hataman.

Officials said the operation highlights the ongoing partnership among the Armed Forces of the Philippines, local government units, and community leaders aimed at clearing Basilan of terrorist influence and fostering sustainable development.