PATIKUL, Sulu — In a major show of unity, trust, and support for peacebuilding efforts in Sulu, residents from various communities in Patikul voluntarily surrendered a total of 29 assorted firearms in a turnover activity jointly facilitated by the Local Government Unit of Patikul and government security forces.
The initiative was spearheaded by the LGU of Patikul under the leadership of Mayor Kabir E. Hayudini in close collaboration with the 1103rd Infantry (Kalis) Brigade, the 35th Infantry Battalion, the 11th Infantry (Alakdan) Division, the 34 barangays of Patikul, and partner security forces operating in the province.
Officials described the voluntary surrender of firearms as a significant step toward strengthening the municipality’s campaign for the establishment of Gun-Free and Peace-Centered Communities in Patikul, a town that for decades has been affected by armed conflict and security challenges.
According to local authorities, the firearms were voluntarily turned over by community residents as a manifestation of their growing confidence in the government’s peace and security initiatives. The move also reflected the collective desire of communities to create safer neighborhoods, promote public security, and open more opportunities for sustainable development and social progress.
The turnover activity highlighted the strengthening relationship between local communities and government forces, with officials emphasizing that peace and security can only be achieved through cooperation, reconciliation, and mutual trust.
The LGU of Patikul, together with the 1103rd Infantry Brigade led by Brigadier General Emmanuel L. Cabasan and the 35th Infantry Battalion under Lieutenant Colonel Romeo Andres, commended residents and barangay leaders for their active participation and continued support for peacebuilding programs in the municipality.
Military and local government officials said the initiative demonstrates the strong partnership among barangay leaders, security stakeholders, and residents in advancing inclusive peacebuilding efforts throughout Sulu.
They added that the cooperation shown by communities in Patikul sends a strong message that many residents are now choosing peace, stability, and development over violence and conflict.
The 1103rd Infantry (Kalis) Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining programs that encourage peaceful coexistence, community empowerment, and the preservation of peace and order across the region.
Meanwhile, the LGU of Patikul expressed optimism that the successful surrender of firearms would inspire more communities in Sulu to support peace-driven initiatives and contribute toward building a more progressive, secure, and conflict-free future for the municipality and the province as a whole.