Talitay, Maguindanao del Norte — In a bid to bolster peace and security in the region, the 2nd Mechanized Infantry (Makasag) Battalion facilitated the turnover of loose firearms at the Talitay Municipal Hall. This event, held as part of the government’s Balik Baril Program, marks a crucial step toward disarmament and the promotion of long-term stability in Maguindanao.
The handover was led by Col. Ricky Bunayog MNSA (INF) PA, Deputy Commander of the 601st Infantry (UNIFIER) Brigade, and LTC Jerome Peñalosa ARM (GSC) PA, Battalion Commander of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry (Makasag) Battalion. The event also coincided with the global Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) program, which aims to prevent the spread and misuse of small arms in conflict-prone areas.
A Collective Effort for Disarmament
The Balik Baril Program, a government initiative designed to encourage the voluntary surrender of illegal firearms, has been instrumental in reducing the number of loose weapons in the country. In Talitay, various barangays participated in the recent turnover, surrendering significant firearms as part of their contribution to peace efforts.
Among the weapons handed over were:
- Two 7.62mm improvised sniper rifles with defaced serial numbers from Barangays Poblacion and Kilalan.
- One 12-gauge improvised shotgun from Barangay Kiladap.
- One 12-gauge shotgun from Barangay Manggay.
- One .30-caliber Garand rifle from Barangay Gadungan.
- One improvised M79 grenade launcher from Barangay Macadayon.
- One improvised M203 grenade launcher from Barangay Kuden.
- One improvised RPG launcher from Barangay Bintan.
- One 5.56mm Ultimax rifle from Barangay Pageda.
The voluntary surrender of these weapons highlights the ongoing collaboration between the military, local government, and the residents of Talitay in the pursuit of a safer and more secure community.
Promoting Peace Amidst Political Season
This event also takes on special significance as it comes ahead of the upcoming midterm elections, a period often marked by heightened political tensions. By reducing the number of loose firearms, the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion is playing a key role in preventing violence and fostering a peaceful election process.
The Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) program, a global initiative, aligns with these efforts by curtailing the illegal circulation of small arms that often fuel instability in vulnerable areas. Through their participation, the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion reaffirms its commitment to promoting peace and reducing the prevalence of illegal firearms in the region.
A Path Toward Long-Lasting Peace
The turnover of loose firearms in Talitay is a significant step forward in the broader peace process in Maguindanao. The success of the Balik Baril Program in the municipality underscores the shared commitment of both the local government and its citizens to creating a more peaceful and secure environment.
As disarmament efforts continue, the hope for long-lasting peace and stability in Maguindanao remains strong. With the combined efforts of the military, local authorities, and residents, initiatives like the Balik Baril Program continue to pave the way for a future free from violence and instability.
