ZAMBOANGA CITY – Eight loose firearms were voluntarily surrendered to authorities during a ceremonial turnover held at the Zamboanga City Hall Conference Room on Friday morning, June 26, underscoring the city’s continuing efforts to curb the proliferation of illegal weapons and strengthen peace and public safety.
The ceremonial turnover was attended by Mayor Khymer Olaso, who lauded the unwavering commitment of Task Force Zamboanga (TFZ), headed by Acting Commander Col. Manaros Boransing II, for its sustained peace and security initiatives that have encouraged civilians to voluntarily surrender unlicensed firearms.
The surrendered firearms included 12-gauge shotguns, .30-caliber bolt-action rifles, one .30 Saginaw rifle, and .357 Magnum revolvers. These were formally received by the city government as part of a broader campaign aimed at reducing the number of loose firearms circulating in communities and preventing their potential use in criminal activities and armed conflicts.
The initiative reflects the growing trust and cooperation among local residents, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), law enforcement agencies, and the City Government of Zamboanga in advancing peacebuilding efforts and fostering a safer environment for all Zamboangueños.
In his message during the ceremony, Mayor Olaso commended Task Force Zamboanga for its dedication to maintaining peace and strengthening community relations.
“Through your dedication, collaboration with partner agencies, and engagement with local communities, you have reinforced public trust and demonstrated that lasting peace is achieved through unity and shared responsibility,” Olaso said.
The ceremonial turnover was facilitated by Task Force Zamboanga Executive Officer Lt. Col. Brendo C. Maglasang, INF (GSC) PA, together with the East Coast Task Unit, whose continuing engagement with local communities has contributed to the successful implementation of the government’s campaign against loose firearms.
Mayor Olaso also recognized the vital role played by the Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO), under the leadership of Col. Fidel Fortaleza Jr., in complementing the city’s peace and order initiatives through sustained anti-crime operations and law enforcement efforts.
Reaffirming the city government’s commitment, Olaso assured continued support for programs that promote peacebuilding, conflict prevention, and community security.
“Together with our law enforcement and military partners, we will continue to pursue measures that safeguard our people and create an environment conducive to progress and development,” the mayor emphasized.
As a gesture of appreciation for their cooperation, each individual who voluntarily surrendered a firearm received a sack of rice and a grocery package from the city government. Mayor Olaso also personally extended cash assistance to each surrenderer, recognizing their contribution to the city’s peace and security campaign.
Authorities said the voluntary surrender of loose firearms forms part of a broader strategy to prevent violence, reduce the risk of armed confrontations, and foster stronger partnerships between government forces and local communities.
Officials expressed hope that the successful turnover would encourage more firearm holders to voluntarily surrender unlicensed weapons, further advancing Zamboanga City’s vision of becoming a more secure, peaceful, and resilient community.