BONGAO, Tawi-Tawi – September 14, 2024
In a significant stride towards maintaining peace and order, Lt. Gen. Charlton Sean M. Gaerlan PN(M), Deputy Chief of Staff (TDCS) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), received a collection of surrendered loose firearms from local residents at the Headquarters of the 2nd Marine Brigade (2MBde) today.
During the event, nine assorted firearms were handed over by the commanders of Marine Battalion Landing Team-1 and Marine Battalion Landing Team-12. These firearms were surrendered voluntarily by law-abiding citizens from the respective areas of operation of the battalions. The ceremony was attended by key figures including Rajib A. Mohammadsaid from the Ministry of Public Order and Safety (MPOS) BARMM, Sharmina S. Julkarnain PDO II from the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD) BARMM, Barangay Chairman Amil N. Asaron of Magsaggaw, Panglima Sugala, PLT Lago, Deputy of Panglima Sugala Municipal Police Station, and PLT Bokalan, Deputy of Bongao Municipal Police Station. BGen. Nestor E. Narag Jr PN(M), Commander of the 2MBde/Joint Task Group Atlas, oversaw the activity.
The firearms surrender was part of the government’s Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) program, which aims to reduce the number of unregistered and illegal firearms in civilian hands. Individuals who participated in the surrender program received benefits provided by the relevant overseeing agencies, further encouraging compliance and cooperation from the community.
Lt. Gen. Gaerlan praised the collaborative efforts of the security sector, local government officials, and community leaders in the successful implementation of the SALW program in Tawi-Tawi. He commended the people of Tawi-Tawi for their proactive role in enhancing local security and urged them to continue setting an example. “Firearms are unnecessary in households,” Lt. Gen. Gaerlan stated. “Only responsible gun owners who adhere to proper legal processes should possess arms. Let us work together to ensure our communities remain safe and peaceful.”
The event highlights a continued commitment to addressing the challenges of firearm proliferation and underlines the importance of community involvement in maintaining public safety and order.
