Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao del Sur — In a significant step towards promoting peace and public safety, more than 200 high-powered and assorted firearms were voluntarily surrendered during the successful conduct of the 1st Barangay Peace Summit held Friday, July 25, at Camp Datu Akilan Ampatuan in Shariff Aguak.
The landmark event was spearheaded by Maguindanao del Sur Police Provincial Director PCol. Sultan Salman Sapal, and gathered representatives from 287 barangays across 24 municipalities in the province.
According to authorities, the massive firearms turnover was the result of collaborative efforts between the Maguindanao del Sur Police Provincial Office and the barangay local government units (BLGUs), reflecting a shared commitment to curb the proliferation of loose firearms and ensure peace in the communities.
“We thank all the barangay captains who participated in this historic peace summit. Their support is vital in our mission to build safer and more secure communities,” said PCol. Sapal.
The provincial police chief also urged local leaders and residents to remain vigilant and cooperative in maintaining peace and order, emphasizing that peacebuilding is a collective responsibility.
The Barangay Peace Summit aims to strengthen community-based peace initiatives, support the government’s disarmament campaign, and reinforce partnerships between law enforcement and grassroots leaders.
Police officials hope that this initiative will set the tone for future collaborations and foster a culture of nonviolence in Maguindanao del Sur.