Banguingui, Sulu — In a significant step toward lasting peace and security, local authorities and military forces witnessed another voluntary firearm surrender in the Municipality of Banguingui on February 18, 2026. The gesture underscores the municipality’s ongoing drive to become officially recognized as a Gun-Free Municipality.
Troops of the 104th Infantry Battalion, operating under the 1102nd Infantry Brigade, 11th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, in coordination with the Banguingui Municipal Police Station, received the voluntary turnover of a Browning A5 12-gauge shotgun along with five rounds of ammunition from Barangay Tainga-Bakkao.
The surrender was facilitated by Hon. Abdulbasir A. Said, Barangay Chairman of Tainga-Bakkao, alongside barangay officials, as part of a sustained program of dialogue and confidence-building with local residents. This initiative is aligned with broader efforts to foster community-centered peace and security across the municipality.
“Voluntary surrenders such as this reflect the positive outcomes of our ongoing engagement and trust-building with local leaders and communities,” said Lt. Col. Roy R. Dalumpines, Commanding Officer of the 104th Infantry Battalion.
Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, Commander of the 1102nd Infantry Brigade, emphasized the importance of collaboration between security forces and the community, noting that “community-led actions are essential in strengthening peace and order.”
Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Leonardo I. Peña, Commander of Joint Task Force Orion and the 11th Infantry Division, highlighted that voluntary surrenders demonstrate increasing public confidence in government-led peace initiatives and signal continued progress toward long-term stability in Sulu.
The 11th Infantry Division, in close coordination with local government units, the Philippine National Police, and partner agencies, remains committed to supporting community-driven programs that enhance public safety and promote sustainable peace throughout the province.
With each voluntary firearm turnover, Banguingui moves closer to achieving its goal of a gun-free environment, reflecting the collective efforts of local officials, security forces, and community members working hand-in-hand for a safer future.