LANAO DEL SUR — June 23, 2025 — In a strong show of support for the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) intensified campaign against unlicensed firearms, residents and local officials from multiple towns across Lanao del Sur voluntarily surrendered loose firearms in recent days. These actions were in line with the PNP’s “Kontra Boga” campaign under Letter of Instruction (LOI) 16-2010, aimed at reducing the proliferation of illegal weapons and promoting community safety.
On June 22, 2025, a barangay kagawad appeared at the Poona Bayabao Municipal Police Station to hand over one (1) unit of a caliber .38 revolver with no serial number and several rounds of ammunition. The firearm was reportedly surrendered by one of the constituents of the barangay chairman, reflecting growing grassroots support for the national campaign.
In a separate instance earlier the same day, at around 8:00 AM, Hon. Allan M. Panantaon of Barangay Poblacion Dado, Mulondo, Lanao del Sur, turned over one (1) unserviceable caliber .22 revolver—also unbranded and without a serial number—to the Mulondo MPS. The firearm was surrendered by a concerned citizen who requested anonymity. Police personnel received the item for proper documentation and disposal.
Meanwhile, on June 21, Hon. Alinor M. Maitum, Barangay Chairman of Tangcal in Buadiposo Buntong, surrendered one (1) unit of a caliber .38 revolver, also without serial number and ammunition. The firearm was turned over to Pat Jabar A. Hadji Gafor, the station’s investigator, after it was entrusted to the chairman by an anonymous constituent.
Earlier, on June 19, Mr. Rolando Carval, a member of the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT) of Brgy. Sigayan, Tagoloan II, personally surrendered one (1) unit of an improvised single-shot homemade shotgun, along with live ammunition, to the Tagoloan Municipal Police Station. The firearm was turned in by an anonymous local resident who cited personal safety concerns for remaining unidentified.
Local police units commended the initiatives of barangay officials, BPAT members, and concerned citizens for their active participation and cooperation. Authorities noted that these voluntary surrenders highlight the increasing awareness of community members regarding the importance of peace, order, and responsible firearm ownership.
“The surrender of these firearms—however small—represents a big step toward peace,” said a statement from the Tagoloan MPS. “We urge other individuals in possession of loose or unregistered firearms to come forward and take part in making our communities safer for everyone.”
The PNP continues to encourage all barangays in Lanao del Sur and beyond to support “Kontra Boga” by facilitating the surrender of illegal firearms and promoting responsible citizenship.