MIDSAYAP, North Cotabato – Residents from the towns of Pahamudin, Nabalawag, and Kadayangan in the Special Geographic Area (SGA) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) surrendered assorted firearms and explosives to the military in a turnover ceremony held on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at the headquarters of the 34th Infantry “Reliable” Battalion in Barangay Salunayan, Midsayap, Cotabato.
The event was led by Brig. Gen. Ricky Bonayog, Commander of the 602nd Infantry Brigade, and Lt. Col. Edgardo Batinay, Commanding Officer of the 34th Infantry Battalion. The surrendered weapons were presented as part of the government’s campaign against loose firearms under the Small Arms and Light Weapons Management Program, aimed at ensuring peace and security in conflict-affected areas.
Also present to witness the turnover were SGA-BARMM Deputy Provincial Director for Administration PLTC Roy Subsuban, Cotabato Police Provincial Office Deputy Provincial Director for Administration LTC John Miridel Calinga, EOD Team Supervisor MSgt. Erwin Sante, and 602nd CMO Company Commander Maj. James Carl Teaño.
Local officials also joined the ceremony to express their support, including Nabalawag SGA-BARMM Mayor Datu Rhenz Tukuran and Kadayangan Municipal Administrator Jan Paried Mascud. They underscored that the surrender of undocumented firearms reflects the communities’ collective desire for lasting peace and stability.
According to the Army, turning over loose firearms prevents these weapons from being used in criminal activities or armed violence, while also strengthening trust between the military, local government, and communities.
Residents of Pahamudin, Nabalawag, and Kadayangan said they hope that through this initiative, sustainable peace and security will be maintained in their municipalities.