PANDAG, Maguindanao del Sur — Residents from eight barangays in Pandag participated in the second loose firearms turnover activity led by the Philippine Army on November 4, 2026, as part of continuing efforts to reduce the proliferation of unlicensed firearms and strengthen peace and security in the municipality.
The turnover ceremony was held at the Yellow Training Center in Pandag and spearheaded by the 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade and the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion under the Armor Division of the Philippine Army.
The participating barangays were Pandag, Malangit, Kayopo, Kabuling, Kataga, Kayaga, Lower Dilag, and Upper Dilag, whose participation reflected the local communities’ involvement in the military’s campaign to encourage the surrender of loose firearms.
The activity brought together military representatives and local government officials, highlighting the importance of cooperation between security forces and local communities in addressing the presence of unlicensed weapons.
Pandag Vice Mayor Sanny S. Macalintangui delivered the welcome remarks, while Municipal Mayor Mohajeran K. Balayman, JD, conveyed the local government’s support for the initiative.
The municipal leadership underscored the importance of programs that promote public safety and help maintain peace and order, particularly in communities where the presence of unregistered firearms can pose security challenges.
In his closing remarks, Lt. Col. Raul P. Escat, commanding officer of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion, emphasized the need for sustained cooperation between the Philippine Army and the local government to prevent the proliferation of illegal firearms and reduce the potential for violence.
He stressed that maintaining peace and security requires not only military operations but also the active participation and support of local government units and communities.
The second turnover activity forms part of the broader disarmament campaign being pursued by the military and local authorities to encourage firearm owners to surrender weapons without the necessary licenses and help prevent their possible use in criminal activities or violent incidents.
The initiative also reflects continuing efforts to strengthen community-based peace and security measures in Pandag and other parts of Maguindanao del Sur.
While the activity demonstrated cooperation among the eight barangays, the military and local government, the long-term effectiveness of the campaign will depend on sustained community participation, responsible firearm regulation, and continued coordination among concerned authorities.