Camp BGen Salipada K. Pendatun, Parang, Maguindanao del Norte — A former barangay chairperson in Sulu has voluntarily surrendered an unlicensed firearm to authorities, reinforcing community support for the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) ongoing campaign against loose firearms.
The firearm, a Caliber .45 Armscor pistol (Model M1911 FS GI) with Serial Number 1181252, was turned over without ammunition on May 29, 2025. The surrender was made by a former official from Barangay Anak Jati in Maimbung town, Sulu.
Police said the turnover was carried out through the efforts of the Maimbung Municipal Police Station in coordination with local barangay officials, under Oplan Katok/ADFir and the Simultaneous Anti-Criminality and Law Enforcement Operations (SACLEO).
Initial checks revealed that the firearm had an expired license. The former official said the decision to surrender the pistol was made to support the PNP’s campaign for peace and order and to help reduce the number of unregistered firearms in the community.
Police Regional Office Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO BAR) Regional Director PBGEN Romeo J. Macapaz commended the act, describing it as a significant contribution to public safety.
“We commend the voluntary surrender of this firearm as a clear manifestation of support for the PNP’s efforts to promote responsible gun ownership. This gesture contributes significantly to our goal of creating safer and more peaceful communities across the Bangsamoro Region,” Macapaz said.
The surrendered pistol is now in the custody of the Maimbung Municipal Police Station and will remain there until the owner secures a valid and renewed license.
Authorities emphasized that such voluntary efforts help boost trust and cooperation between law enforcement and local communities, advancing the shared goal of lasting peace and security in the region.