LUUK, Sulu — A potentially volatile situation was peacefully resolved in Sulu after a loose firearm was voluntarily surrendered following an indiscriminate firing incident in Barangay Poblacion, Siasi, on July 30, 2026, underscoring the continued effectiveness of the government’s Rido-Free, Gun-Free, and Peace-Centered Community (RFGFPCC) Campaign in preventing violence and strengthening public trust in law enforcement.
The 104th Infantry “Para sa Bayan” Battalion, under the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade, reported that the successful operation prevented the incident from escalating into a more serious security concern while reinforcing community cooperation in promoting peace and the rule of law.
According to Lt. Col. Roy Dalumpines, Commanding Officer of the 104th Infantry Battalion, troops from the unit’s Scout Platoon led by 2nd Lt. Brix Jones B. Laging immediately responded after receiving reports of indiscriminate gunfire in the area.
The responding soldiers promptly coordinated with the Siasi Municipal Police Station (MPS) to conduct verification, intelligence gathering, and law enforcement operations aimed at identifying and locating the suspect.
Authorities later identified the suspect only by the alias “Warres,” who allegedly fired a caliber .45 pistol twice, causing fear and alarm among residents of Barangay Poblacion.
Through the combined efforts of the Philippine Army, Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and local government officials, the suspect was peacefully apprehended without further incident.
During a formal turnover conducted at the Headquarters of the 104th Infantry “Para sa Bayan” Battalion in Barangay East Kuntad, Siasi, the individual voluntarily surrendered one caliber .45 pistol, one magazine, and one live round of ammunition.
Military officials emphasized that the voluntary turnover demonstrated the growing effectiveness of the RFGFPCC Campaign, which encourages communities to settle conflicts peacefully and surrender loose firearms before they contribute to violence or clan feuds.
Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino P. Delos Santos, Commander of the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade, said the accomplishment reflects the increasing confidence of local communities in government peace initiatives.
“This accomplishment reflects the growing trust and cooperation of our communities. Through the RFGFPCC Campaign, we continue to promote peaceful solutions, strengthen the rule of law, and sustain the peace we have collectively built in Sulu,” Delos Santos said.
The RFGFPCC Campaign remains one of the Philippine Army’s key peace and security initiatives in Sulu, focusing on eliminating loose firearms, preventing rido or clan feuds, reducing gun-related violence, and fostering stronger collaboration among security forces, local government units, and community leaders.
The 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the PNP, local government units, the Philippine Coast Guard, and other stakeholders to sustain peace and public safety across the province.
Military officials also urged residents to continue supporting government peace-building programs by reporting illegal firearms, discouraging acts of violence, and participating in community efforts aimed at maintaining a Rido-Free, Gun-Free, and Peace-Centered Sulu.