Iligan City, Lanao del Norte | June 12, 2025 — In a show of solidarity for lasting peace and security in Mindanao, fifty-one loose firearms were formally turned over to the government on Wednesday during a ceremonial event held at the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade in Lanao del Norte.
The event was spearheaded by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), in close coordination with the Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and members of the Localizing Normalization Implementation (LNI) – Lanao del Norte cluster.
Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Carlito G. Galvez Jr. lauded the turnover as a “victory for unity and cooperation,” describing it as a significant milestone in the government’s Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) Management Program. The program aims to curb the spread of unregistered firearms and foster trust and cooperation between communities and the state.
“The surrender of these firearms is more than disarmament — it is a reaffirmation of our collective responsibility for peace and security,” Galvez said in his address.
Since the program’s inception, a total of 7,976 firearms have been recorded — 2,764 of which were voluntarily surrendered, while 5,212 were stenciled for tracking and documentation. These achievements are the result of sustained partnerships among OPAPRU, the Western Mindanao Command (WESMINCOM), local government units, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Brigadier General Anthon G. Abrina, Commander of the 2nd Mechanized Brigade, emphasized that the act of voluntarily handing over firearms reflects a growing confidence in government-led peacebuilding efforts.
“This turnover signifies confidence in our efforts. Voluntary firearm surrender means communities believe in a future built on security and development,” Abrina stated.
The symbolic ceremony was held in conjunction with the 127th anniversary of Philippine Independence, further highlighting the government’s ongoing commitment to peace as a foundation for nation-building.
Key officials present included Mayor-elect Alliah Mamay-Omar, Vice-Mayor Dr. Maximo C. Arnado, Vice-Mayor Casim Abubakar, United Religions Initiative Mindanao Director Musa Mohammad Sanguila, and Xarifa Lao Sanguila of the Non-Violent Peace Force.
The turnover is seen as a critical step forward in strengthening normalization efforts under the peace agreement and ensuring a safer, more stable environment for communities in Lanao del Norte.