CAMP SANG-AN, Zamboanga del Sur — In a significant step toward strengthening peace and security in Mindanao, the 101st Infantry (Three Red Arrows) Brigade under the 1st Infantry Division of the Philippine Army successfully facilitated the voluntary surrender of assorted loose firearms and explosives on February 7, 2026, at the Headquarters of Joint Task Group “Three Red Arrows” in Barangay Matalin, Malabang, Lanao del Sur.
Eight individuals voluntarily turned over high-powered firearms, explosives, and a crew-served weapon, signifying their decision to abandon armed struggle and return to the fold of the law. Military officials said the surrender reflects growing public trust in the government’s peace-building initiatives and the sustained security operations being carried out in conflict-affected communities.
Among the items surrendered were 80 hand grenades, one rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) launcher, two rounds of RPG anti-tank ammunition, three KG9 pistols with magazines, three Garand rifles, 14 rounds of 9mm ammunition, and 10 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition. Authorities noted that the recovery of these weapons significantly reduces the potential for armed violence and criminal activity in the area.
The surrender activity was led by Brig. Gen. Yasser R. Bara, Commander of Joint Task Group “Three Red Arrows,” with the participation of Lt. Col. Jerry B. Gaviola, Commanding Officer of the 64th Infantry (Knights) Battalion, and personnel from the 1st Military Intelligence Battalion. The joint team worked closely to ensure the safe, orderly, and transparent conduct of the activity.
Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., Commander of the 1st Infantry Division, welcomed the development and underscored its importance in advancing peace and stability in Lanao del Sur and neighboring areas.
“This voluntary surrender reflects the positive results of sustained engagement, trust-building, and cooperation with our communities. The 1st Infantry Division remains committed to guiding our brothers back to the fold of the law while continuing to secure our areas and promote lasting peace and stability in Mindanao,” Barroquillo said.
Military officials emphasized that the successful surrender was made possible through continuous dialogue, community engagement, and coordination with local leaders and stakeholders. These efforts, they said, have helped create an environment where individuals feel safe and encouraged to renounce violence and embrace lawful and productive livelihoods.
The 1st Infantry Division reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to eliminating loose firearms and explosives across its area of responsibility. It also vowed to further strengthen collaborative and decisive security operations in partnership with local government units, community organizations, and civil society groups.
Authorities urged other individuals still in possession of illegal firearms and explosives to follow the example set by the recent surrenderees, stressing that the government remains open to reconciliation and reintegration programs aimed at fostering long-term peace and development in Mindanao.