CAMP SIONGCO, Dec. 19 -- Nine "violent" extremists surrendered to the Philippine Army here on Thursday, military officials said.

The group, comprising a former Dawlah Islamiya member and eight Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, laid down their arms at the 1st Brigade Combat Team headquarters in Sultan Kudarat town.

Among them was the son of a former BIFF spokesperson, identified as "Alias Tata."

"I realized that our armed struggle through violence is getting us nowhere," Tata said. "What I decided now is to be with my family, live normal life and become a productive citizen."

The surrenderees turned in an Ultimax rifle, a Barrett sniper rifle and other war materials. They were presented to Col. Rommel Pagayon, acting commander of 1B...