Camp Navarro Calarian, Zamboanga City – February 27, 2025
The campaign against loose firearms in the Bangsamoro region continues to gain momentum as 13 more firearms were voluntarily surrendered to the 33rd Infantry Battalion in Maguindanao del Sur on February 24, 2025.
The surrendered firearms, consisting of 13 Cal .30 M1 Garand Rifles, were formally turned over to Col. Edgar Catu, Commander of the 601st Brigade, during a Political Candidates Forum held in Barangay Zapakan, Radjah Buayan.
Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, Chief of the Western Mindanao Command, emphasized that the surrender is part of the ongoing Small Arms and Light Weapons Management Program initiatives. He commended the joint efforts of the Joint Task Force Central and local communities in Maguindanao del Sur in fostering harmony and security in the region.
Local government officials, representatives from civil society organizations, and other stakeholders witnessed the event, underscoring the collaborative efforts to address the proliferation of loose firearms. Since January, the campaign has resulted in the surrender of over 200 firearms, reflecting significant progress in the region’s disarmament efforts.
Authorities continue to encourage individuals and groups to turn over unregistered firearms to help sustain peace and security in the Bangsamoro region.
