DATU SALIBO, Maguindanao del Sur — A loose firearm was voluntarily surrendered to government forces after a video circulating on social media showed an armed individual passing through a military detachment in the municipality, authorities reported.
The surrender was facilitated on April 21, 2026, through the joint efforts of the 38th Infantry Battalion (38IB) and the local government unit of Datu Salibo, led by Mayor Ali K. Omar. The individual seen in the now-viral video reportedly turned over the firearm without resistance, averting a potential security concern in the area.
Items surrendered included a 5.56mm rifle, two long magazines, 46 rounds of ammunition, and a red dot sight—equipment considered high-powered and capable of causing significant harm if misused.
Military officials from the 38IB, also known as the “We Clear” Battalion, along with the 601st Infantry Brigade, commended the swift coordination between the local government, security forces, and concerned residents. They emphasized that the peaceful turnover reflects growing public trust and cooperation in efforts to curb the proliferation of loose firearms in conflict-affected areas.
“This incident highlights the importance of community vigilance and responsible action. The immediate response from the LGU and the cooperation of civilians were crucial in ensuring that the situation did not escalate,” a military official said.
Authorities noted that the surrender serves as a concrete example of how community engagement and government intervention can work hand in hand to promote peace and order, particularly in regions historically challenged by armed violence.
The military has reiterated its call for the public to remain alert and continue supporting initiatives aimed at reducing illegal firearms. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities and voluntarily surrender unlicensed weapons as part of ongoing peacekeeping and security campaigns.
Officials expressed hope that similar acts of cooperation will persist, reinforcing stability and preventing potential threats in Maguindanao del Sur and neighboring areas.