Thirteen barangays in Parang, Sulu were officially declared as “Gun-Free Zone and Peace-Centered Community” in a program held at Barangay Saldang Hall on September 4, 2024. The event was attended by the 1101st Infantry (Gagandilan) Brigade led by BGEN MARIO D. JACINTO, along with COL YASSER R. BARA MNSA (MI) PA, Deputy Brigade Commander, and CPT CESAR S. GAYGUER JR (INF) PA, Brigade Civil-Military Officer.
The barangays included in the declaration are Brgy. Saldang, Brgy. Bukid, Brgy. Danapa, Brgy. Linuho, Brgy. Paugan, Brgy. Piyahan, Brgy. Kutah Sairap, Brgy. Tikong, Brgy. Laum Buwahan, Brgy. Upper Sampunay, Brgy. Lower Sampunay, Brgy. Buli Bawang, and Brgy. Wanni Pyanjihan.
The declaration of the Gun-Free Zone and Peace-Centered Community was led by Parang Mayor Alkhadar T. Loong and organized by the 41st Infantry (Partner For Peace) Battalion under the leadership of LTC RAY N. DE LIMA INF (GSC) PA. During the program, barangay officials signed an agreement to maintain peace and prohibit the carrying of firearms in their respective areas.
In his message, BGen Jacinto thanked the people behind the successful declaration. He mentioned that such a program is a good example for community development. He also praised the barangay leaders for their courage and determination and encouraged them to continue their efforts. He assured that the military and police would continue to support the security of the area. He expressed his happiness with the significant changes towards peace in Sulu and emphasized the importance of following the law for the benefit of future generations. He said that peace and justice have been achieved and should be continuously maintained.
The barangay leaders also gave brief speeches as a sign of their support for the program’s objectives. Other officials from the military and local government also attended, including LTC FRANCO F. BAYLON GSC (INF) PA, OG8, 11ID, PA; PCOL NARCISO C. PARAGAS, Police Director, Sulu-PPO; Hji Zaldi Sadjail, Focal Person MTF-ELAC; Ms. Najia N. Harud, Field Coordinator for ZAMBASUL, Nonviolent Peace Force Philippines; Mrs. Nermida Muksan, Assistant Provincial Director, MILG-Sulu; Mr. Abubakar O. Loong Jr, Municipal Administrator, residents, and students in the area.
