JOLO, Sulu — The campaign to establish Rido-Free, Gun-Free, and Peace-Centered communities in Sulu is gaining significant traction, as more civilians voluntarily surrender their firearms—an encouraging sign of growing public trust and a strengthened commitment to long-term peace.
Authorities reported that since January 1, 2026, a total of 95 assorted high- and low-powered firearms have been turned over across the province, underscoring the effectiveness of intensified peacebuilding efforts led by the military, police, and local government units.
The latest wave of surrenders took place on April 1, 2026, involving coordinated operations by the 104th Infantry “Para sa Bayan” Battalion and the 21st Infantry “Invincible” Battalion under the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade of the Philippine Army’s 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division.
In Tapul, Lt. Col. Roy R. Dalumpines, Commanding Officer of the 104th Infantry Battalion, reported that two short firearms—a caliber .45 pistol and a caliber .38 revolver—were voluntarily surrendered at the Municipal Hall. The handover was facilitated by Bravo Company troops led by 1st Lt. Jaythron L. Dumaga, in coordination with personnel from the local police station.
The initiative was made possible through the proactive efforts of Barangay Chairpersons Nehada T. Daud of Barangay Alu Kabingaan and Abraham S. Ingoh of Barangay Kaumpang, highlighting the crucial role of grassroots leadership in advancing peace and order at the community level.
Meanwhile, in Panglima Estino, Lt. Col. Ronald A. Borras, Commanding Officer of the 21st Infantry Battalion, confirmed the surrender of one high-powered firearm—an M1 Garand rifle—in Barangay Tiptipon. The turnover was facilitated by troops under 1st Lt. Restituto T. Dalogdog Jr., alongside personnel from the Panglima Estino Municipal Police Station led by PCpt. Bert F. Francisco.
The successful handover was attributed to the initiative of Barangay Chairperson Rowesman H. Ammar, in close coordination with local officials, reflecting deepening cooperation among community stakeholders in support of government-led peace initiatives.
Brig. Gen. Alaric A. Delos Santos, Commander of the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade, emphasized that the increasing number of voluntary firearm surrenders signals that the government’s peace campaign is taking root at the grassroots level. He noted that such collective efforts are vital in sustaining peace gains and preventing the resurgence of violence.
For his part, Maj. Gen. Leonardo I. Peña, Commander of the 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division and Joint Task Force Orion, commended both security forces and local stakeholders for their sustained commitment to peacebuilding. He underscored that reducing the number of loose firearms through voluntary surrender remains a key strategy in maintaining security and fostering long-term development in Sulu.
The 11th Infantry Division, in partnership with local governments and community leaders, continues to intensify localized peace engagements, urging more residents to take part in initiatives that promote safety, stability, and a culture of peace throughout the province.