TABINA, Zamboanga del Sur — In a united show of commitment to peace and public safety, a total of twenty-two (22) loose firearms and four (4) explosives were formally surrendered in a ceremonial turnover event held in Tabina, Zamboanga del Sur.
The initiative, part of the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) Management Program of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU), highlights the government’s ongoing campaign to reduce the circulation of unauthorized firearms and build lasting peace in conflict-affected areas.
The event was led by the 53rd Infantry (MATAPAT) Battalion, in partnership with the 102nd Infantry (IGSOON) Brigade, OPAPRU, and the Provincial Government of Zamboanga del Sur, alongside local security agencies.
Among the key officials present were Brig. Gen. Samuel G. Yunque, PA, Commander of the 102nd Brigade; Hon. Divina Grace C. Yu, Governor of Zamboanga del Sur, represented by Hon. John Regala, 2nd District Board Member and Chair of the Committee on Fire, Public Safety, Peace and Order; Hon. Juhaine A. Malaco, Municipal Mayor of Tabina; PCpt. Brainhull A. Sakkam, OIC of Tabina MPS; LCDR Vincent Bryan N. Marcos, Station Commander of PCG Zamboanga del Sur; and Lt. Col. Rolando E. Vargas Jr., Commanding Officer of the 53rd Infantry Battalion.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Yu, Hon. Regala commended the unified efforts of the military, police, and local officials in sustaining the peace initiatives of the province.
“This activity demonstrates our shared responsibility to maintain public safety and strengthen trust among communities. Under Governor Yu’s leadership, the province remains steadfast in supporting peace initiatives that ensure the safety and well-being of our people,” he said.
Mayor Malaco echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that peace is the foundation of progress.
“When our people choose peace, we open the way for lasting progress. This program proves that strong partnerships among government, security forces, and citizens are the key to development,” he said.
For his part, Brig. Gen. Yunque underscored that the voluntary surrender of firearms is a strong indicator of growing public trust in government-led peace programs.
“This act of cooperation is a clear sign that the people believe in the government’s mission of peace. Together, we are building communities free from fear and violence,” he stated.
The ceremony also featured the signing of a Peace Covenant, the presentation of plaques and mementos, and the symbolic release of doves—a gesture symbolizing unity, trust, and renewed hope for lasting peace.
Through the continued implementation of the SALW program, the government encourages citizens to turn over unregistered or unlicensed weapons, thereby reducing threats to public safety and fostering a culture of cooperation and peace.
This initiative reinforces the close collaboration among OPAPRU, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police, and local government units—a partnership that continues to drive peace, security, and development in Zamboanga del Sur, paving the way toward a safer and more prosperous province for future generations.