DATU UNSAY, Maguindanao del Sur (October 2, 2025) — In a move that underscores the community’s commitment to peace and security, residents of Datu Unsay formally turned over a cache of loose firearms to government authorities in a ceremony held at the Municipal Compound in Barangay Meta on September 30.
The turnover was made possible through the combined efforts of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Datu Unsay.
Brigadier General Edgar Catu, Commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade, said the initiative reflects the continuing collaboration between security forces and the local community in pursuit of a firearms-free municipality.
Among the surrendered firearms and ordnance were one M1 Garand rifle, one rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) with launcher, one 81-mm round of ammunition, one M203 grenade launcher, two Uzi submachine guns, two 81-mm mortar tubes, and one .60-caliber rifle. These were placed under the custody of the Datu Unsay Municipal Police Station for proper documentation and safekeeping.
The event was witnessed by local officials, led by Municipal Mayor Datu Andal Ampatuan, who expressed support for the government’s campaign against loose firearms.
Major General Donald Gumiran, Commander of the Joint Task Force Central, commended the residents for their cooperation. “The voluntary handover of these firearms is a clear demonstration of trust in our security sector and a significant step toward sustaining peace and order in the community,” he said.
Brigadier General Romulo Quemado II, Acting Commander of the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom), likewise lauded the initiative. “This act of surrendering loose firearms shows the residents’ commitment to peace and their confidence in the government’s efforts to ensure safety and stability in the province,” he noted.
WestMinCom assured the public that security forces, in partnership with local government units and stakeholders, will continue to enforce measures to account for and recover loose firearms in support of the government’s peace and development programs.