SIASI, SULU — In a historic milestone for peace and security in the province, the Municipality of Siasi was officially declared a Rido-Free and Gun-Free Municipality and Peace-Centered Community through a joint initiative of the Philippine Army, local government, and law enforcement agencies.
The declaration was led by the 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division, spearheaded by the 104th Infantry “Para sa Bayan” Battalion under the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade, in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Siasi and the Sulu Police Provincial Office. The ceremony was held on February 8, 2026, at the Laminusa Island Covered Court in Barangay Kongkong, drawing hundreds of residents, officials, and peace advocates.
The formal recognition was sealed through a municipal resolution read by Vice Mayor Hon. Arnashrif M. Muksan, affirming the municipality’s firm commitment to public safety, conflict resolution, and sustainable peace.
High-Level Leaders Lead Peace Declaration
The event was attended by key military and civilian leaders, including:
- Maj. Gen. Leonardo I. Peña, Commander of the 11th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Orion
- Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino P. Delos Santos, Commander of the 1102nd Infantry Brigade
- Lt. Col. Roy R. Dalumpines, Commanding Officer of the 104th Infantry Battalion
They were joined by municipal and barangay officials, religious leaders, educators, and community peace partners, reflecting the broad-based support behind the initiative.
LGU, Community Unity Cited as Key to Success
Mayor Ben-Sayeed Muksan, represented by Municipal Councilor Hon. Juruppin Punguntan, expressed gratitude to barangay leaders, the religious sector, academe, and security forces for their unwavering cooperation.
He highlighted that continuous dialogue, mediation, and community participation played a crucial role in resolving long-standing clan feuds and preventing armed violence. He also commended the 104th Infantry Battalion for its sustained presence and grassroots engagement in conflict-affected communities.
“This achievement reflects the strength of unity and mutual trust among our people,” Punguntan said, emphasizing that peace was built through patience, respect, and shared responsibility.
Military Leaders Stress Community Ownership of Peace
In his address, Brig. Gen. Delos Santos underscored that lasting peace cannot be imposed by force alone.
“This milestone was achieved because the people of Siasi chose peace,” he said. “Security efforts succeed only when communities take ownership of their role in building a safe and harmonious society.”
Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Peña praised the collective efforts of local leaders, residents, and security forces, describing the declaration as a powerful symbol of transformation.
“Peace is a conscious choice that leads to development and stability,” Peña said. “We must protect these gains so that future generations will no longer suffer from the conflicts of the past.”
Surrendered Firearms Symbolize Commitment
One of the highlights of the ceremony was the ceremonial presentation of previously surrendered firearms, symbolizing the community’s firm resolve to end armed violence and illegal weapons possession.
Officials said the voluntary surrender of firearms was the result of sustained peace dialogues, trust-building activities, and livelihood and development programs aimed at addressing the roots of conflict.
The move reflects growing public confidence in local institutions and security forces, as well as a renewed commitment to the rule of law.
A Model for Peace-Building in Sulu
Authorities described Siasi’s declaration as a model for community-driven peace-building in Sulu and other conflict-affected areas in Mindanao.
Through coordinated efforts among citizens, local government units, religious leaders, educators, and security forces, the municipality has transformed long-standing divisions into platforms for cooperation and reconciliation.
The Rido-Free and Gun-Free declaration is expected to pave the way for increased investment, improved public services, and expanded opportunities for education and livelihood, contributing to long-term development.
Sustaining Peace for the Future
Officials stressed that while the declaration marks a major achievement, sustaining peace remains a continuing responsibility.
Local leaders committed to strengthening mediation mechanisms, youth engagement, and community watch programs to ensure that disputes are resolved peacefully and illegal firearms do not resurface.
“The work does not end here,” Mayor Muksan said in a message read during the event. “Peace must be protected every day by every citizen.”
As Siasi moves forward as a peace-centered community, the declaration stands as a powerful testament to what unified action, mutual respect, and shared vision can accomplish in building a safer, more resilient future for Sulu and the Bangsamoro region.