ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE, Philippines – Two firearms, a hand grenade, dozens of rounds of ammunition, and several magazines were voluntarily surrendered by responsible citizens in separate turnover ceremonies conducted on June 25 and 26, 2026, as the Philippine Army intensified its campaign against loose firearms under the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) Management Program.
The surrender activities were spearheaded by Lieutenant Colonel Jessie G. Bergonia, Commanding Officer of the 97th Infantry (KALASAGLAHI) Battalion, together with First Lieutenant Astrid Jay D. Kaindoy, Officer-in-Charge of Charlie Company, in close coordination with local government officials led by Baliguian Mayor Gani Esmali and Barangay Captain Behar A. Salamat of Barangay Sta. Maria, Siocon.
Authorities said the voluntary turnover resulted in the surrender of two firearms, one hand grenade, 90 rounds of ammunition, and six magazines. The recovered weapons, explosive, and other war materiel were immediately subjected to proper documentation and placed under the secure custody of the 97th Infantry Battalion in accordance with existing government regulations and standard operating procedures.
The Army said the initiative forms part of the government’s continuing efforts to reduce the proliferation of loose firearms and explosives, prevent their possible use in criminal or armed activities, and strengthen peace and public safety in communities across the province.
Lieutenant Colonel Bergonia emphasized that the voluntary surrender reflects the growing trust and confidence of the people in both the Philippine Army and their local government units.
He said every firearm and explosive voluntarily turned over to the government represents a significant contribution to maintaining peace, protecting lives, and enhancing public security.
“The voluntary surrender of firearms and explosives is proof of the people’s continued trust in the Philippine Army and our local government units. Every weapon and explosive removed from the community helps ensure a safer and more peaceful environment for everyone,” Bergonia said.
The Army also reiterated its appeal to individuals still possessing unlicensed firearms and explosives to voluntarily surrender them to the authorities, stressing that public cooperation remains essential in sustaining peace and order.
Military officials noted that the SALW Management Program continues to serve as a key component of the government’s peace and security efforts by encouraging lawful compliance, preventing armed violence, and fostering stronger partnerships between security forces, local governments, and the communities they serve.
The 97th Infantry Battalion vowed to sustain its intensified information campaign and community engagements to encourage more residents to support the program and help build safer, more peaceful, and progressive communities throughout Zamboanga del Norte.