OMAR, Sulu — A joint law enforcement and security operation led by the Philippine Army resulted in the voluntary surrender of high-powered firearms and explosives in Sitio Puh-Puh, Barangay Angilan, Omar, Sulu on August 21, 2025.
The operation was spearheaded by the 101st Infantry “Sajahitra” Battalion under Lt. Col. Dante E. Mantes, with ground execution by Lt. Bryan Jay G. Esteban, Bravo Company Commander. The firearms and explosives were formally turned over to the Omar Municipal Police Station for documentation and safekeeping.
Among the surrendered items were:
- One (1) Cal. 5.56mm Colt M16 Rifle
- Seven (7) magazine assemblies for Cal. 5.56mm
- One hundred twenty-four (124) live ammunition of Cal. 5.56mm
- Two (2) Rifle Grenades (HE)
The initiative was carried out in coordination with the Omar Municipal Police Station under PCpt. Abzren R. Jamud, Chief of Police, alongside personnel from the 3rd MP “Cobra” Company, 2nd PMFC, the local government of Omar, and Barangay Captain Hon. Nundin Jana of Angilan.
Lt. Col. Mantes welcomed the development, stressing that the voluntary surrender reflected growing trust in the government. “This is a step closer to sustaining peace in Omar and in the whole of Sulu,” he said.
Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, Commander of the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade, commended the collaboration of security forces and stakeholders, emphasizing that voluntary disarmament prevents violence and creates a safer environment for development.
Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Leonardo I. Peña, Commander of the 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division, praised the cooperation of residents and local leaders. He described the turnover as “a testament to the collective desire of the Tausug people to end the cycle of violence.”
The Philippine Army, in partnership with the PNP and local government units, reiterated its commitment to sustaining peace and strengthening community security across Sulu.