Omar, Sulu — A face-to-face community dialogue held on January 21, 2026, in Barangay Niangkaan, Omar, Sulu, culminated in the voluntary surrender of a 60mm mortar, a significant breakthrough in local peace and security efforts and a concrete step toward declaring the municipality a gun-free area.
The dialogue was spearheaded by the 101st Infantry “Sajahitra” Battalion under the 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division, in close coordination with the Barangay Local Government Unit of Niangkaan led by Punong Barangay Habib Juddin Pantasan. The initiative forms part of sustained security and peace-building efforts aimed at removing loose firearms and war materiel from communities.
Military officials confirmed that the surrendered mortar was formally turned over to the battalion for proper documentation and safekeeping, ensuring it will no longer pose a threat to civilians.
Lt. Col. Dante E. Mantes, Commanding Officer of the 101st Infantry Battalion, commended barangay officials and community leaders for their openness and cooperation, stressing that grassroots participation is crucial in maintaining peace and order.
“This achievement proves that when communities and security forces engage in open dialogue, tangible results follow,” Mantes said, noting that trust and cooperation remain the backbone of effective peace initiatives.
Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, Commander of the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade, emphasized that the surrender highlights the effectiveness of LGU-led and people-centered approaches in advancing local security and preventing armed violence.
Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Leonardo I. Peña, Commander of the 11th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Orion, underscored that the voluntary surrender reflects growing trust between the military and local communities, a critical factor in sustaining long-term peace.
“The success of this dialogue shows that lasting peace is built not through force alone, but through cooperation, understanding, and shared responsibility,” Peña said.
The activity underscores the strong partnership between the Philippine Army, local government units, and community leaders in Omar, reinforcing collective efforts to promote stability, protect civilians, and ensure a safer environment for future generations.