PAYAO, Zamboanga Sibugay — In a renewed push to consolidate peace and security at the community level, the 106th Infantry (TIGPANALIPOD) Battalion facilitated a voluntary firearms surrender on January 22, 2026 at the Talaib Patrol Base in Sitio Talaib, Barangay Labatan, here.
The activity was supervised by Lt. Col. Janaloden M. Sanggacala, battalion executive officer, alongside 1st Lt. Jon C. Anilao, commander of Alpha Company. The initiative drew strong local support, with the Local Government Unit of Payao represented by Municipal Vice Mayor Joeper Mendoza, and community leaders led by Barangay Captain Nurhima S. Badol of Labatan.
As part of the whole-of-government approach, the LGU of Payao provided food packs to the firearms owner, underscoring the collaborative effort between the military, local officials, and community stakeholders to encourage voluntary participation in peace initiatives.
Military officials said the surrender reflects sustained gains under the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) Management Program implemented through the LNI framework of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, highlighting steady progress in grassroots peacebuilding across the province.
The 106th Infantry Battalion reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding communities, strengthening partnerships with local governments and residents, and promoting peaceful, voluntary engagement with government programs aimed at achieving lasting peace and inclusive development in Zamboanga Sibugay.