Camp Siongco, Awang, DOS, Maguindanao del Norte — A total of 22 loose firearms were voluntarily surrendered by concerned citizens of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte, to the 1st Brigade Combat Team (1BCT) on December 12, 2024.
According to Lt. Col. Gilbert L. Boado, head of the Combined Arms Team 6 (CAT6), the turnover of the firearms was part of the intensified implementation of the military’s Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) Management Program.
The formal turnover ceremony was held at the Municipal Conference Room in Brgy. Dalumangcob, Sultan Kudarat. Among the attendees were Hon. Datu Tucao O. Mastura, CPA, Municipal Mayor; Brigadier General Jose Vladimir R. Cagara PA, Commander of the 1BCT, PA; Ms. Kurais Dali, Election Officer IV of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte; and P/Col. Joel S. Estaris, Provincial Director of the PPO, Maguindanao del Norte.
The surrendered firearms included:
- Two Cal.50 Rifles
- Two M14 Rifles
- One 7.62mm Springfield Rifle
- Thirteen 7.62mm Sniper Rifles
- One Grenade Launcher (40mm, M79 Tube)
- Two 12-Gauge Shotguns
- One Cal.22 Rifle
“The primary objective of the SALW program is to support and strengthen the campaign against loose firearms, especially as the election season approaches,” stated Major General Antonio G. Nafarrete, Commander of the 6th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Central.
Maj. Gen. Nafarrete further emphasized, “I am pleased with the collaborative efforts of the military, local government, and residents in achieving a peaceful community that benefits everyone. The surrender of loose firearms is a step toward a safer and more peaceful society, ensuring the security of the entire region.”
The SALW program continues to serve as a key initiative in curbing the proliferation of unregistered firearms and fostering trust between local authorities and communities in conflict-prone areas.