Siasi, Sulu — Sustained community engagement and close coordination between local leaders and security forces have once again yielded positive results, as residents of Siasi voluntarily surrendered several firearms on February 6, 2026, in support of the municipality’s ongoing bid to be declared a Gun-Free Municipality.
The latest surrender activity forms part of the peace and security initiatives spearheaded by the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade under the 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division of the Philippine Army. Authorities reported that the firearms voluntarily turned over included one M14 rifle, one M1 Garand rifle, one Ingram M11 submachine gun, one M14 magazine, and five rounds of 7.62mm ammunition—items considered significant in reducing the circulation of loose firearms in the area.
The formal turnover was conducted at the Municipal Hall Extension in Laminusa Island and facilitated by Deputy Mayor Al-Prince Alian, in close coordination with barangay officials from Tong, Tampakan, and Luuk. The surrendered firearms were received by personnel of the 104th Infantry “Para sa Bayan” Battalion, marking another milestone in the municipality’s peace-building efforts. The initiative was led by the Barangay Local Government Units following a series of community dialogues aimed at encouraging residents to actively participate in maintaining peace and order.
Local officials and military leaders credited the success of the activity to continuous consultation, trust-building, and transparent engagement with community members. Lt. Col. Roy R. Dalumpines, Commanding Officer of the 104IB, said the voluntary surrender reflects the positive impact of sustained dialogue and cooperation between authorities and community leaders.
“This outcome shows that when people are heard and involved, they become partners in securing their own communities,” Dalumpines said, emphasizing that trust remains a key element in convincing residents to give up unregistered and loose firearms.
Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, Commander of the 1102nd Infantry Brigade, likewise underscored the importance of grassroots participation in maintaining peace. He noted that community-led actions are vital in sustaining gun-free initiatives and ensuring that peace efforts are not solely driven by security forces but by the people themselves.
Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Leonardo I. Peña, Commander of the 11th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Orion, highlighted that voluntary firearm surrender is a strong indicator of growing public confidence in government peace and development programs. He said it reflects a shared sense of responsibility among residents to protect lives, promote stability, and uphold public safety.
“This gesture shows that communities are increasingly embracing peaceful solutions and recognizing their role in building a secure environment for future generations,” Peña said.
The recent surrender follows earlier similar activities in Siasi, signaling a steady rise in public support for disarmament and the removal of illegal firearms. Authorities believe these developments bring the municipality closer to its goal of becoming a gun-free community and a model for peace in the province.
The 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division reiterated its commitment to working closely with local government units, traditional leaders, and civil society groups to sustain peace initiatives. Through continuous engagement, dialogue, and community empowerment, the military hopes to further strengthen public trust and promote safe, peace-centered communities across Sulu.