Kumalarang, Zamboanga del Sur – A total of 30 loose firearms were voluntarily surrendered during the Turnover of Loose Firearms Ceremony held on February 28, 2025, in Poblacion, Kumalarang. The event was conducted in collaboration with the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) Management Program under the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU).
This marks the third successful disarmament initiative in the province under the SALW program, reaffirming the government’s commitment to peacebuilding, security, and sustainable development. Individuals who turned over their firearms will be provided access to livelihood opportunities, aiding their transition into productive and law-abiding citizens.
Among the surrendered firearms were one M14 rifle, one M1 Garand, ten .38 caliber pistols, one Carbine M1, one M4A1 rifle, thirteen homemade shotguns, two .45 caliber pistols, and one improvised .30 caliber sniper rifle.
The ceremonial turnover was spearheaded by the 53rd Infantry (Matapat) Battalion and the 102nd Infantry (Igsoon) Brigade, with key local officials in attendance, including Kumalarang Municipal Mayor Hon. Ruel Molina and Acting Brigade Commander Col. Eddie M. Pilapil. Their presence highlighted the strong collaboration between the military, local government, and communities in ensuring a safer and more peaceful environment.
Mayor Ruel Molina lauded the voluntary surrender, emphasizing its significance in strengthening local security efforts. He noted that this initiative reflects the power of collaboration between the military, local government, and communities, paving the way for a safer and more progressive future.
Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Gabriel C. Viray III, Commander of the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, commended the efforts of the 53rd Infantry Battalion and the 102nd Infantry Brigade in ensuring the successful implementation of the initiative. He emphasized that the turnover of firearms is a testament to the trust communities place in security programs and vowed continued cooperation with local leaders to promote dialogue and peace.
The event underscores the Philippine government’s unwavering efforts to curb the proliferation of loose firearms, strengthen security measures, and foster lasting peace and development in Zamboanga del Sur and beyond.