Twenty (20) different types of loose firearms were voluntarily surrendered by residents of Talitay, Maguindanao del Norte to the troops of the 1st Mechanized Battalion.
According to Lt. Col. Robert Betita, commander of the 1st Mechanized Battalion, the successful turnover of firearms is the result of an intensified campaign against loose firearms through the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) management program. The turnover ceremony was held on January 18, 2025, at the Municipal Hall of Barangay Poblacion, Talitay.
The surrendered weapons included two sniper rifles (Cal .50mm; Barrett), seven rifles (7.62mm; M14), three rifles (Cal.30; M1 Garand), three grenade launchers (40mm), one shotgun (12 Gauge), two pistols (Cal. 38; Revolver), one pistol (Cal. 22; Revolver), and various ammunition.
Lt. Col. Betita presented the surrendered firearms to Col. Ricky Bunayog, Acting Brigade Commander of the 601st Infantry (Unifier) Brigade. The ceremony was attended by Talitay Municipal Mayor Hon. Sidik S. Amiril, PCMS Gene Anni of Talitay MPS, Vice-Mayor Hon. Datu Fahad Midtimbang, municipal councilors, barangay leaders, and other local government unit (LGU) officials of Talitay.
“The surrender of these firearms is proof that our citizens are gaining trust in the peace and order initiatives we are advocating. Through the collaboration of the local government and the military, we are witnessing the long-term impact of the campaign against loose firearms with the help of the SALW management program and efforts to address local armed conflicts,” said Col. Bunayog.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant General Antonio G. Nafarrete PA, Commander of the 6th Infantry Division (6ID), Joint Task Force Central, and Western Mindanao Command, warned those still in possession of unlicensed firearms to surrender them to authorities as government troops continue to pursue individuals carrying loose firearms.
“I appeal to the public to surrender loose firearms, especially as the election gun ban is currently in effect in connection with the upcoming elections. I believe that turning over these weapons is a crucial step toward peace and security in the area. Additionally, we want to assure the residents of Talitay, Maguindanao del Norte, that your soldiers from the JTFC and 6ID are committed to serving the people and protecting communities,” Lt. Gen. Nafarrete emphasized.
