A loose firearm was voluntarily handed over by civilians in Pandami, Sulu as the intensified implementation of the government’s Rido-Free, Gun-Free, and Peace-Centered Community (RFGFPCC) Campaign continues to gain momentum and strong community backing across the province.
Lt. Col. Roy R. Dalumpines, Commanding Officer of the 104th Infantry “Para sa Bayan” Battalion, said troops from Alpha Company led by 1st Lt. Carl Lorenz A. Ebon, together with personnel from the 15th Civil-Military Operations Battalion and the Pandami Municipal Police Station under PMSg Abdulsaid M. Wajihil, proceeded to the Barangay Hall of Barangay Laud Sibaud in Pandami on May 26, 2026, to receive the surrendered firearm from concerned residents.
Authorities identified the firearm as one M1 Garand rifle, which was formally presented and facilitated by Barangay Chairman Hon. Nida A. Aming of Barangay Laud Sibaud. Officials said the turnover demonstrated the continued support of local government officials, barangay leaders, and residents toward the government’s peace and security initiatives in Sulu.
Military officials emphasized that the voluntary surrender of firearms is a strong indication of the growing trust and cooperation between local communities and government security forces under the RFGFPCC Campaign.
“The active support of our barangay officials, local stakeholders, and residents significantly contributes to our collective efforts in preventing violence, addressing armed conflict, and sustaining peace and order in our communities,” Dalumpines said.
Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino P. Delos Santos, Commander of the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade, lauded the continuing collaboration among the military, police, local government units, and communities in promoting peace and stability across the province.
“Every firearm voluntarily handed over is a manifestation of the people’s growing commitment to peace, unity, and lawful order. Through the sustained support of our stakeholders and communities, we will continue to strengthen our peace and security efforts across the province,” Delos Santos said.
The 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade reported that since January 1, 2026, a total of 168 assorted high-powered and low-powered firearms have already been recovered through the intensified implementation of the RFGFPCC Campaign in the second district of Sulu.
Security officials said the continuing recovery of loose firearms is expected to further reduce the possibility of armed violence, clan feuds, and criminal activities while strengthening long-term peacebuilding efforts in the province.