Camp Siongco, Awang, DOS, Maguindanao del Norte – In a show of support for peace and security initiatives, four loose firearms were voluntarily surrendered by concerned residents of Brgy. Lamud, South Upi, Maguindanao del Sur, on September 19, 2024. This development comes as part of the ongoing Mobile Community Support Sustainment Program (MCSSP) spearheaded by the 57th Infantry (Masikap) Battalion.
According to Lt. Col. Aeron T. Gumabao, commander of the 57IB, the decision to turn over the firearms was made by residents who acknowledged that they were not authorized to possess the weapons.
The surrendered firearms include a US Springfield 7.62mm M14 Rifle, a 7.62mm M14 Rifle, a Cal .30 Garand Rifle, and a 20-Gauge Shotgun, along with corresponding magazines and ammunition.
Lt. Col. Gumabao attributed the success of the program to the efforts of the Tropang Kalilintad Organization (TKO), a community group that actively supports the military’s campaign against loose firearms. “Organizations like TKO are instrumental in preventing the proliferation of unregistered firearms, making our efforts more proactive,” he noted.
Meanwhile, Major General Antonio G. Nafarrete, Commander of the 6th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Central, expressed his gratitude to the residents of South Upi for choosing to avoid violence and criminal activities linked to illegal firearms. “Your decision to surrender these loose firearms paves the way for peace and order, which are vital for progress and hope in our communities,” Maj. Gen. Nafarrete said.
This voluntary surrender marks another step towards the goal of achieving lasting peace and development in the region.
