SULU, Philippines (March 27, 2026) — A total of five firearms were voluntarily surrendered by civilians in the municipalities of Luuk and Panamao on Friday, underscoring growing public trust in government-led peace initiatives and strengthening efforts to establish gun-free, conflict-resilient communities across the province.
Authorities said the turnover reflects a steady shift toward cooperation between local residents and security forces, amid intensified campaigns promoting disarmament and long-term peace in Sulu.
Lt. Col. Ronald A. Borras, Commanding Officer of the 21st Infantry “Invincible” Battalion, reported that three of the firearms were turned over in Panamao. These included two M1 Garand rifles and one caliber .45 pistol, voluntarily surrendered by civilians through coordinated efforts led by local officials.
Borras credited the success of the initiative to the proactive leadership of Barangay Chairpersons Hon. Benhar A. Abdulmaid of Barangay Bangday, Hon. Abdurauf Sawadjaan of Barangay Kan-Asaali, and Hon. Rasilkhan S. Sajad of Barangay Bud Seit. Their coordination with barangay councils and the Panamao Municipal Police Station proved crucial in facilitating the peaceful handover.
“The role of local leaders is vital in advancing peace efforts at the grassroots level,” Borras emphasized, noting that community-driven initiatives are key to sustaining security gains.
Meanwhile, in Luuk, Lt. Col. Dante E. Mantes, Commanding Officer of the 101st Infantry “Sajahitra” Battalion, confirmed the surrender of two additional firearms—one M1 Garand rifle and one caliber .45 pistol—in Barangay Tulayan Island.
The turnover was made possible through the initiative of Barangay Chairperson Hon. Hja. Karfaisa A. Omar, in coordination with the Philippine Army, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the local government unit.
Mantes said the development highlights the effectiveness of sustained inter-agency collaboration in pushing forward the municipality’s goal of becoming a gun-free and peace-centered community.
“These efforts not only sustain the momentum of peace initiatives but also inspire more individuals to support a conflict-free environment,” he said.
Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino P. Delos Santos, Commander of the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade, underscored that the voluntary surrender of firearms demonstrates the success of localized peace engagements and strengthened partnerships among the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), PNP, local government units, and communities.
“Each firearm handed over significantly reduces potential threats and contributes to a safer environment,” Delos Santos said.
Maj. Gen. Leonardo I. Peña, Commander of Joint Task Force Orion and the 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division, commended both security forces and community stakeholders for their continued commitment to peacebuilding.
He stressed that voluntary disarmament remains a critical component in preventing violence and ensuring long-term stability in the region.
“Lasting peace can only be achieved through unified action,” Peña said.
The 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division, in coordination with partner agencies, reiterated its commitment to encouraging more communities to support firearm surrender initiatives, as part of broader efforts to advance peace and development throughout Sulu.