Jolo, Sulu — A growing wave of civilian cooperation is strengthening peace efforts in Sulu, as four firearms were voluntarily surrendered in separate municipalities on Sunday, March 22, signaling increased public support for the government’s campaign to establish Gun-Free, Rido-Free, and Peace-Centered communities.
Military officials said the handovers took place in the towns of Panamao, Luuk, and Tapul, reflecting a notable shift in community attitudes toward disarmament and conflict prevention.
Lt. Col. Ronald Borras, commanding officer of the 21st Infantry “Invincible” Battalion, reported that at around 2:00 p.m., troops from Charlie Company led by 2nd Lt. Marco P. Quimson facilitated the voluntary turnover of a caliber .30 M1 Carbine rifle in Barangay Baunoh, Panamao. The initiative was led by Barangay Chairman Ayyub M. Sangkula, in coordination with local officials and the Panamao Municipal Police Station.
Borras emphasized that the successful surrender underscores growing grassroots participation in peacebuilding efforts, driven by stronger collaboration between the military, police, and local government units.
At the same time in Luuk, Lt. Col. Dante E. Mantes, commander of the 101st Infantry “Sajahitra” Battalion, confirmed that troops from Alpha Company under 1st Lt. Clent Mark C. Gaitera, alongside personnel from the Luuk Municipal Police Station led by Police Captain Jennifer E. Buco, oversaw the turnover of a caliber .30 M1 Garand rifle in Barangay Kan Bulak.
The surrender was facilitated by Barangay Chairman Najir S. Hajad and forms part of ongoing efforts to solidify Luuk’s status as a Gun-Free and Peace-Centered Municipality. Mantes highlighted the importance of sustained coordination among the Philippine Army, Philippine National Police (PNP), and local government units in achieving long-term peace objectives.
A significant milestone was also recorded in Tapul, where the first-ever voluntary firearm surrender in the municipality was documented. Lt. Col. Roy R. Dalumpines, commander of the 104th Infantry “Para sa Bayan” Battalion, said troops facilitated the turnover of two firearms—a caliber .30 M1 Garand rifle and a caliber .357 Smith & Wesson Magnum revolver—from concerned civilians.
Dalumpines described the development as a breakthrough in Tapul’s peace campaign, noting that it reflects increasing trust in government-led initiatives. He credited local leaders, including Barangay Chairpersons Sherlmaline L. Jaalain of Barangay Hawan and Asia H. Taradji of Barangay Sumambat, for mobilizing community support.
Tapul Municipal Mayor Nasser Daud Jr. said the voluntary surrender demonstrates the community’s renewed commitment to stability and peace. He stressed that unity and cooperation among residents, local leaders, and security forces are key to achieving a conflict-free municipality.
Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino P. Delos Santos, commander of the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade, said the handovers highlight the effectiveness of localized peace engagement strategies. He noted that each surrendered firearm represents a concrete step toward reducing violence and strengthening security across Sulu.
Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Leonardo I. Peña, commander of Joint Task Force Orion and the 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division, commended troops and stakeholders for sustaining momentum in peacebuilding efforts. He underscored that voluntary disarmament plays a crucial role in preventing armed conflict and fostering safer communities.
The 11th Infantry Division, in partnership with local governments and law enforcement agencies, continues to encourage civilians to support disarmament initiatives, reinforcing a shared commitment to lasting peace and development in Sulu.