Surigao City: The 15 members of the Federal Tribal Government of the Philippines (FTGP) who surrendered to authorities on Wednesday were victims of large-scale illegal recruitment and human trafficking, Surigao City Mayor Pablo Yves Dumlao II revealed Thursday. During a press conference, Dumlao said the surrenderers, hailing from Monkayo, Davao de Oro, and nearby towns, were lured to Surigao City with promises of high-paying jobs by FTGP leaders Jorgeto Corpuz Santisas, alias Datu Adlaw, and Dodong Santisas.

According to Philippines News Agency, Dumlao expressed gratitude to the victims for coming forward, emphasizing that their bravery is essential for justice to be served. He added that the recruits were deceived into joining the group and participating in illegal activities, including the padlocking of business establishments. Two surrenderers, Danilo Montalbo from Monkayo and Ruel Martinez from Tago, Surigao del Sur, revealed they were promised salaries ranging from PHP18,000 to PHP50,000 but were instead coerced into unlawful acts.

Lt. Col. Diomedes Cuadra Jr., commander of the First Surigao del Norte Provincial Mobile Force Company, reported that nine FTGP members from Davao de Oro approached police to surrender and expressed their desire to return home. Surigao City Police Chief Lt. Col. Mariano Lukban confirmed that criminal complaints have been filed with the Prosecutor’s Office and are awaiting resolution. Once resolved, arrest warrants will be issued.

Col. Warren Dablo, director of the Surigao del Norte Police Provincial Office, stated that the FTGP compound in Barangay Sabang is under 24-hour surveillance. He emphasized that the safety of minors and women inside the compound is a priority during any planned operations. Mayor Dumlao affirmed their commitment to dealing with the situation seriously and dismantling any illegal activities linked to the group.