CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, DOS, Maguindanao del Norte – A total of 156 former violent extremists were given significant reintegration support during the Former Violent Extremist Summit 2024, held on October 29 at Alamid Garden Restaurant, Barangay Poblacion, Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao del Sur.
Organized by Task Force Balik Loob in partnership with the 601st Infantry (Unifier) Brigade, the summit brought together military and civilian leaders dedicated to advancing peace and stability in the region.
Brigadier General Oriel Pangcog, Commander of the 601st Brigade, highlighted the contributions of Shariff Aguak Vice Mayor Marop Ampatuan, who sponsored 184 food packs, while 13 sacks of rice were provided by the National Food Authority Region 12.
“The distribution of food packs and rice was one of the highlights of the event, underscoring the vital role of local government in the reintegration process for these former extremists”, said Brigadier General Pangcog.
Key attendees included Maguindanao del Sur Board Member Ahmil Hussein Macapendeg; Doctor Hayat Mokalid Pilas, Chief of the Cooperative and Social Enterprise Authority BARMM; Ms. Jenessy Sampulna, Account Assistant from Landbank of the Philippines’ North Cotabato Lending Center.
Colonel Rey Rico, Assistant Chief of Staff for Civil-Military Operations; Lieutenant Colonel Al Victor Burkley, Commander of the 6th Infantry (Redskin) Battalion; Lieutenant Colonel Ronaldo Mamangun of the 40th Infantry (Magiting) Battalion; and Lieutenant Colonel Jerome Peñalosa of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion.
Representing USEC Angelito De Leon of Task Force Balik Loob, Captain Ferdinand Buscato emphasized that the summit’s mission was to establish People’s Organizations among the former violent extremists and provide them with skills in financial management through the Cooperative and Social Enterprise Authority BARMM, with support from Landbank’s North Cotabato branch.
Major General Antonio Nafarrete, Commander of the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division and Joint Task Force Central, underscored the importance of collaboration between the military, government, and community organizations in the summit’s success.
“The FVE Summit 2024 demonstrated the cohesive partnership between the military, government, and civil organizations in reinforcing peace and stability in the region, providing structured support for these former extremists as they rebuild their lives and contribute to community resilience”, said Major General Nafarrete.
The FVE Summit 2024 stands as a testament to the ongoing commitment to support former extremists in their journey toward productive civilian life, offering resources and training to aid in their successful reintegration.