ILIGAN CITY – Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command chief Major Gen. Steve Crespillo attended the 633rd founding anniversary of local governance and public administration in Sulu known as Bangsa Sug Day on September 18.

DEFENSE Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. (center) poses with Abu Sayyaf Group surrenderers during a visit to Camp Teodulfo Bautista in Jolo, Sulu as part of the 633rd founding anniversary of local governance and public administration in Sulu known as Bangsa Sug Day. (Photo via Bonita Ermac)
Highlight of the event was the presentation of 30 former violent extremists and their surrendered firearms to the Defense Secretary.
In his message, Teodoro assured the rebel returnees of reintegration support from the government.
Teodoro and Crespillo visited the Joint Task Force Sulu in Camp Teodulfo Bautista, Busbus, Jolo, Sulu before heading back to Zamboanga City.
The Defense Secretary led a briefing at the conference room of the 11th Infantry Division in Camp Teodulfo Bautista.
Crespillo commended the Joint Task Force Sulu for their significant accomplishments against the Abu Sayyaf Group in Sulu.
“As the commander of the Western Mindanao Command, I am extremely happy to personally witness the transformation of Sulu. Through the concerted efforts of our troops, the local government units, and the peace-loving people of Sulu, we were able to end terrorism, which stalled the development of the province for years," said Crespillo.
"The Armed Forces will continue to work hard to sustain peace and boost development in the beautiful province of Sulu.”