CAMP SANG-AN, Zamboanga del Sur — In a significant boost to peace and security efforts in Western Mindanao, troops of the 106th Infantry (Tigpanalipod) Battalion successfully facilitated the voluntary surrender of assorted loose firearms and a hand grenade by civilians in Tungawan, Zamboanga Sibugay.
The activity was conducted on February 7, 2026, at the Headquarters of Bravo Company, 106IB, located in Sitio DK, Barangay Libertad, as part of the Philippine Army’s continuing peace and security initiatives under the 102nd Infantry (Igsoon) Brigade of the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division.
A total of five civilians, all residents of Tungawan town, voluntarily turned over various firearms and an explosive device that had been collected from within the battalion’s area of responsibility. Military officials said the surrender reflects the growing willingness of local residents to cooperate with authorities and actively support government-led peace programs, particularly the Localized Normalization Program and the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) Management Program.
Among the surrendered items were one caliber .50 rifle, one U.S. Carbine caliber .30 M1 rifle, two shotguns, one caliber .38 revolver, one 5.56mm pistol, one 12-gauge pistol shotgun, and one hand grenade. Authorities noted that the recovery of these weapons significantly contributes to reducing the circulation of illegal firearms and enhancing public safety in the community.
Following the turnover ceremony, all firearms and the explosive device were immediately transported to the headquarters of the 106th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Lower Baluran, Imelda, Zamboanga Sibugay. There, the surrendered items underwent proper documentation, verification, and processing in accordance with existing military policies and procedures.
Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., Commander of the 1st Infantry Division, praised the initiative, describing it as a clear manifestation of increasing community trust and cooperation in sustaining peace and order in the Zamboanga Peninsula.
“This voluntary surrender reflects our improving peace and order situation and the growing trust of our communities in the government’s peace and security initiatives. Through sustained engagement and strong inter-agency cooperation, we continue to reduce the proliferation of loose firearms and strengthen peace, order, and security within our area of responsibility,” Barroquillo said.
Military officials emphasized that the activity is part of a broader strategy to prevent armed violence, dismantle private armed groups, and support the reintegration of former combatants and affected communities into peaceful civilian life.
The 1st Infantry Division reiterated its commitment to strengthening normalization efforts and fostering long-term peace and stability in Western Mindanao through continuous dialogue, community engagement, and coordinated security operations with local government units and partner agencies.