TALITAY, Maguindanao del Norte — A turnover ceremony for loose firearms was held in Talitay on October 3, 2026, as local authorities and security forces continued efforts to reduce the circulation of unlicensed weapons and strengthen peace and order in the municipality.
The activity was led by Talitay Mayor Sidik Amirill and attended by representatives of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), MILF Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (MILF-CCCH), local government officials, barangay chairpersons and other community stakeholders.
The ceremony formed part of the “Balik-Baril para sa Kapayapaan” campaign, an initiative aimed at encouraging individuals in possession of loose firearms to voluntarily surrender their weapons to authorities through existing government programs.
Loose firearms remain a significant concern in communities where efforts to consolidate weapons and strengthen local security are ongoing. Authorities have emphasized that the voluntary surrender of unlicensed firearms can help reduce the potential for armed violence and support broader peace-building efforts.
During the ceremony, organizers underscored the importance of cooperation among residents, barangay officials, local government authorities and security forces in maintaining peace and stability at the community level.
The participation of different sectors in the activity also highlighted the importance of a coordinated approach to security, particularly in areas where government institutions and community stakeholders continue to work together to prevent violence and address the presence of unauthorized firearms.
The Local Government Unit of Talitay expressed its appreciation to the individuals who participated in the firearm surrender initiative, as well as to the government agencies and security institutions supporting efforts to maintain peace and security in the municipality.
Authorities and local officials continue to encourage residents who possess loose firearms to cooperate with government programs and avail themselves of appropriate surrender mechanisms rather than allowing unlicensed weapons to remain in circulation.
The latest turnover activity is part of continuing local peace and security efforts in Talitay, with government and community stakeholders emphasizing that lasting peace requires not only the presence of security forces but also the active participation and cooperation of residents.
Officials likewise renewed their call for communities to support lawful initiatives designed to strengthen public safety and create a more secure environment for families and residents across Talitay.