Maguindanao del Sur, July 28, 2025 — In a strong display of cooperation with the Police Regional Office–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO BAR), seven barangay officials from the Municipality of Buluan voluntarily turned over loose firearms and explosive devices to local police, reinforcing ongoing peace and security initiatives across the region.
The officials from Barangays Digal, Lower Siling, Maslabeng, Poblacion, Popol, Talitay, and Upper Siling surrendered their weapons at the Buluan Municipal Police Station, signifying their commitment to disarmament and the reduction of unregulated weapons in their communities.
Among the items surrendered were one homemade rifle grenade, two high-explosive fragmentation grenades, two locally made shotguns known as “De-dose,” one 40mm high-explosive grenade, and one homemade pistol or “Paltik.” Authorities said these weapons posed significant risks if left unchecked and could be used in criminal or insurgent activities.
“This voluntary act by our barangay officials is a commendable step toward a more secure and peaceful Maguindanao del Sur,” said PBGEN Jaysen C. De Guzman, PRO BAR Regional Director. “Their leadership in giving up unlicensed weapons sends a powerful message in support of our collective effort to end violence and build lasting peace in the Bangsamoro region.”
The firearms and explosives will be turned over to the Maguindanao del Sur Police Provincial Office for documentation, and later transferred to the Regional Forensic Unit–BAR for ballistic examination and appropriate disposition under standard protocols.
The initiative is part of the Philippine National Police’s intensified campaign against the proliferation of loose firearms, which remains a key challenge in many parts of Mindanao. Authorities continue to call on other local leaders and residents to follow suit and help strengthen community safety.
Police officials said the peaceful turnover reflects increasing collaboration between law enforcement and grassroots leaders, a crucial element in maintaining peace and order in conflict-affected areas.