Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur — December 8, 2025.
In a powerful display of unity and dedication to lasting peace, residents of Labangan voluntarily surrendered twenty-seven (27) assorted loose firearms and eleven (11) explosives during an official turnover ceremony under the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) Management Program.
The significant initiative underscores the government’s continuing efforts to reduce the circulation of unauthorized firearms, strengthen public safety, and foster a more secure environment for all communities in Zamboanga del Sur.
The activity was spearheaded by the 53rd Infantry (MATAPAT) Battalion, with strong coordination from the 102nd Infantry (IGSOON) Brigade, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU), and the Local Government Unit of Labangan. The Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Government and multiple partner security agencies also extended support to ensure the program’s success.
Key officials present included BGEN Samuel G. Yunque, PA, Commander of the 102nd Infantry Brigade; Governor Divina Grace C. Yu of Zamboanga del Sur; Mayor John Raymon C. Yu of Labangan; MGEN Rene Glen Paje (Ret.), Director of Operations of NTF-ELCAC under OPAPRU; and LTC Rolando E. Vargas Jr., Commanding Officer of the 53rd Infantry (MATAPAT) Battalion of the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army.
Officials commended the people of Labangan for their steadfast cooperation. The voluntary turnover, they emphasized, reflects a genuine desire to protect future generations from violence and contribute to the province’s broader peace and development agenda.
BGen Yunque lauded the community’s commitment, noting that initiatives like the SALW Program succeed only when citizens and local leaders work hand-in-hand with security forces. Governor Yu and Mayor Yu likewise praised the residents for choosing peace over fear, affirming their continued support for programs that dismantle tools of violence and empower communities.
LTC Vargas underscored that the MATAPAT Battalion remains fully committed to assisting local governments in sustaining peace gains and ensuring that Zamboanga del Sur remains a safe place to live, work, and grow.
The turnover ceremony serves as a strong reminder that peacebuilding is a shared responsibility—and that Labangan stands as a model municipality where unity, trust, and cooperation continue to pave the way toward a safer future.