Maguindanao del Sur – In a strong show of community cooperation and support for public safety initiatives, three loose firearms were voluntarily surrendered to local authorities in separate incidents in Shariff Saydona Mustafa and Datu Montawal.
On April 24, 2025, a concerned citizen handed over two unlicensed UZI-type pistols—a .45 caliber pistol bearing serial number 032212 and a 9mm pistol—to Barangay Chairperson Hon. Maria Theresa Andal of Barangay Nabundas, Shariff Saydona Mustafa. The firearms were later turned over to the Shariff Saydona Municipal Police Station for proper documentation and safekeeping. The surrender is part of the ongoing campaign of the Maguindanao del Sur Police Provincial Office (MDSPPO) against loose firearms, aimed at ensuring the safety and security of local communities.
Just two days later, on April 26, 2025, another loose firearm—a caliber .357 revolver without a serial number and its ammunition—was voluntarily surrendered in Barangay Talapas, Datu Montawal. Barangay Chairperson Hon. Makabembeng D. Mamindas facilitated the turnover of the firearm to the Datu Montawal Municipal Police Station, headed by Chief of Police PCPat Nurjhasier A. Sali. The surrendering individual, who requested anonymity, cited support for the ongoing campaign against loose firearms and compliance with the existing gun ban.
The recovered revolver is now in the custody of the Datu Montawal MPS and will be forwarded to the Regional Forensic Unit – Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (RFU BAR) for ballistic examination and proper disposition.
PCOL Ryan Bobby C. Paloma, Acting Provincial Director of MDSPPO, commended the collaborative efforts, highlighting the vital role of the community and barangay officials in curbing the proliferation of illegal firearms. “These acts of responsible citizenship underscore the strengthening partnership between our community, local officials, and the police. We commend the bravery and civic-mindedness of those who contributed to making Maguindanao del Sur a safer place,” he said.
The MDSPPO continues to encourage the public to support its campaign for a more peaceful and secure province.