PAYAO, Zamboanga Sibugay — In a strong show of community trust and government resolve, the 106th Infantry (TIGPANALIPOD) Battalion of the Philippine Army successfully facilitated two separate firearms surrenders in Barangay Labatan, Payao, reinforcing ongoing efforts to curb the proliferation of loose firearms and strengthen peace and security in the province.
The first firearms surrender was carried out on January 6, 2025 at the Labatan Patrol Base, followed by a second surrender on January 13, 2026, marking a significant milestone in the barangay’s journey toward lasting peace.
Both activities were supervised by Lt. Col. Janaloden M. Sanggacala (INF) PA, Executive Officer of the 106IB, with the support of Capt. Karl David B. Lozardo (INF) PA, Alpha Company Commander, and Cpl. Nurman T. Maradi (INF) PA, Patrol Base Commander. The initiatives were conducted in close coordination with barangay and municipal leaders, including Barangay Chairwoman Nurhima S. Badol and Payao Mayor Joshua Mendoza.
Military and local officials lauded the twin surrenders as clear evidence of growing community confidence in peace initiatives and the effectiveness of sustained dialogue, engagement, and security operations in conflict-affected areas.
“These successive firearms surrenders in the same barangay show that when people trust the government, peace becomes achievable,” one military official said. “This is not just about giving up weapons—it’s about choosing a safer future for families and communities.”
The activities form part of the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) Management Program under the Localizing Normalization Implementation (LNI) Program of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU). The program is a key component of the government’s whole-of-nation approach to ending armed conflict and promoting sustainable development in former conflict areas.
Local leaders also welcomed the developments, saying the surrenders would help reduce fear, prevent violence, and open more opportunities for economic growth and social services in the barangay.
“The people of Labatan are showing that peace is possible when the community and government work together,” said a barangay official. “We are thankful for the constant presence and support of the Philippine Army.”
The 106th Infantry Battalion reaffirmed its commitment to protecting communities, strengthening peace-building mechanisms, and encouraging voluntary participation in government programs aimed at ending the cycle of violence.
With each firearm surrendered, authorities say peace grows stronger, opportunities expand, and hope takes root—not only in Labatan, but across Zamboanga Sibugay.