OMAR, Sulu — In a strong show of community resolve to uphold peace and public safety, residents of the Municipality of Omar voluntarily surrendered high-powered firearms to the Philippine Army on Monday, January 26, 2026, reinforcing the town’s drive to be declared a gun-free municipality.
The surrender included two .45 caliber pistols with one magazine and a 9mm Uzi-type submachine gun with one magazine, turned over to the 101st Infantry “Sajahitra” Battalion at the Omar Municipal Hall. The activity was facilitated by barangay leaders—Hon. Rahsa Ajibon of Barangay Lahing-Lahing, Hon. Romeo S. Asul of Barangay Sucuban, and Hon. Arshir Asmawil of Barangay Capual Island—following a series of community dialogues led by Barangay Local Government Units (BLGUs).
Military officials said the voluntary turnover is part of the ongoing peace and security initiatives of the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade under the 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division, aimed at eliminating loose firearms and preventing armed violence at the community level.
This latest development follows earlier voluntary surrenders in the municipality, including a 60mm mortar and a .30 caliber M1 Garand rifle—moves authorities say reflect a growing culture of trust, cooperation, and shared responsibility between civilians and security forces.
Lt. Col. Dante Mantes, commanding officer of the 101st Infantry Battalion, attributed the success to sustained engagement with local leaders and residents. He stressed that continuous dialogue builds confidence and encourages communities to take responsible action for their own safety.
Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, commander of the 1102nd Infantry Brigade, praised the active role of barangay officials and residents, emphasizing that lasting peace is achieved not by force alone but through collective action and cooperation at the grassroots level.
Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Leonardo I. Peña, commander of the 11th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Orion, said the voluntary surrender of firearms underscores the effectiveness of community-centered peace initiatives and could serve as a model for other municipalities seeking stability and public safety.
The 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division reiterated its commitment to supporting local governments and communities in sustaining peace efforts and advancing a gun-free environment across the province, noting that the success in Omar demonstrates how unity and dialogue can translate into concrete gains for security and development.