SOUTH UPI, Maguindanao del Sur — In a significant step toward strengthening peace and security, the 57th Infantry (Masikap) Battalion, under the operational control of the 603rd Infantry Brigade, successfully facilitated the voluntary surrender of 43 assorted loose firearms in the Municipality of South Upi, Maguindanao del Sur.
The activity was led by Lt. Col. Aeron T. Gumabao and carried out as part of the Small Arms and Light Weapons Management Program of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity. The initiative supports the government’s broader peacebuilding agenda, including women’s participation, community empowerment, and human security.
Turnover ceremony highlights unity for peace
The turnover ceremony was held at the municipal gymnasium in Barangay Romogoab during the operationalization of the South Upi Municipal Task Force to End Local Armed Conflict (MTF-ELAC). Firearms surrendered by residents from 11 barangays were formally presented to Brig. Gen. Michael A. Santos, Commander of the 603rd Brigade, alongside Mayor Helen A. Padua and OPAPRU Peace Program Officer Sittie Casan.
In his message, Brig. Gen. Santos described the surrender as more than a simple turnover of weapons.
“Today is not just about 43 firearms laid down—it is about 43 opportunities for peace. Each surrendered weapon represents a life redirected, a family made safer, and a community moving forward,” he said.
He emphasized that sustainable peace can only be achieved through cooperation among government agencies, local leaders, and communities.
“Peace cannot be achieved by the Armed Forces alone. It requires the commitment of every sector. Together, we will continue building a peaceful and progressive Maguindanao del Sur,” Santos added.
Local leaders praise residents’ cooperation
Mayor Padua expressed gratitude to residents who voluntarily surrendered their firearms, noting that their decision reflects strong community support for peace and order.
She stressed that the initiative demonstrates the people’s commitment to ending violence and preventing future incidents of shootings and armed conflicts in the municipality.
Local officials and peace advocates also underscored that the continued reduction of illegal and unregistered firearms is a crucial step toward lowering crime rates and improving public safety in South Upi.
Strengthened inter-agency collaboration
The event highlighted close coordination among the Armed Forces of the Philippines, local government units, and national agencies in advancing peace and development in conflict-affected communities.
According to military officials, the surrendered firearms have been temporarily deposited at the headquarters of the 57th Infantry Battalion for proper custody and safekeeping, in line with established security protocols.
Commitment to lasting stability
The 603rd Infantry Brigade, also known as the “Persuader Brigade,” reaffirmed its commitment to supporting peace initiatives, empowering communities, and fostering partnerships aimed at achieving long-term stability and inclusive growth in Maguindanao del Sur and neighboring areas.
Authorities said similar activities will continue as part of the government’s whole-of-nation approach to peacebuilding, encouraging more residents to choose dialogue, cooperation, and unity over armed conflict.