JOLO, SULU — The government’s intensified push for Rido-Free, Gun-Free, and Peace-Centered Communities (RFGFPCC) in Sulu continues to yield significant gains, with five firearms voluntarily surrendered by civilians in a series of coordinated activities from April 8 to 11, 2026—an indication of growing public trust and participation in peacebuilding efforts across the province.
The Philippine Army, through the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade under the 11th Infantry Division, reported that the successful handovers were the result of sustained collaboration with the Philippine National Police and local government units. Officials underscored that the initiative highlights the effectiveness of community-based security strategies in conflict-affected areas.
Lt. Col. Ronald A. Borras, Commanding Officer of the 21st Infantry “Invincible” Battalion, said the first turnover took place on April 8 in Barangay Tubig Jatih, Panamao. Troops from Charlie Company, led by Capt. Elmer S. Dancel and working alongside the Panamao Municipal Police Station, facilitated the surrender of a 40mm M79 grenade launcher and an Armscor caliber .38 revolver, both bearing defaced serial numbers. The grenade launcher was secured at the unit’s command post, while the revolver was turned over to police authorities for proper disposition.
The following day, April 9, two more firearms were surrendered in separate villages in Panamao. In Barangay Tabuh Manok, personnel led by 1st Lt. Tom Troy B. Tanzo received a shotgun, while another team operating in Barangay Bulangsih facilitated the turnover of a caliber .45 pistol. Borras emphasized that these developments were made possible through the proactive support of barangay officials, reflecting strong grassroots commitment to the campaign.
In a separate operation on April 11, Lt. Col. Roy R. Dalumpines, Commanding Officer of the 104th Infantry “Para sa Bayan” Battalion, reported the surrender of a caliber .30 M1 Garand rifle in Barangay Saimbangon, Pata. The firearm was handed over through the efforts of troops led by 2nd Lt. Christian Bajado, in coordination with the Pata Municipal Police Station, and was presented by the barangay chairman—demonstrating the critical role of local leadership in promoting peace and security.
Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, Commander of the 1102nd Infantry Brigade, said the steady increase in voluntary firearm handovers signals rising public confidence in the government’s peace initiatives. He noted that the campaign is not only aimed at reducing armed violence but also at fostering a culture of accountability, cooperation, and shared responsibility among communities.
“The willingness of civilians to surrender firearms reflects a collective desire to move away from conflict and toward lasting peace,” Delos Santos said.
The 11th Infantry Division, together with its partner agencies, vowed to sustain and intensify its community engagement efforts, encouraging more residents to support the RFGFPCC campaign. Authorities remain optimistic that continued collaboration between security forces and local stakeholders will further advance the goal of achieving stable, peaceful, and progressive communities throughout Sulu.