OMAR, Sulu — A .30 caliber M1 Garand rifle was voluntarily surrendered in the Municipality of Omar on January 23, 2026, marking a significant boost to ongoing peace and security efforts aimed at declaring the area a gun-free municipality.
The firearm was formally turned over to the 101st Infantry “Sajahitra” Battalion of the 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division, Philippine Army, in coordination with the Omar Municipal Police Station. The surrender was facilitated by Barangay Huwit-Huwit Chairperson Carmina A. Lakkian during the Association of Barangay Captains (ABC) meeting held at the Omar Municipal Hall.
Lt. Col. Dante E. Mantes, Commanding Officer of the 101IB, said the voluntary surrender was the result of sustained dialogue and trust-building initiatives among the military, police, and barangay leaders. He emphasized that strong community engagement remains a crucial factor in encouraging civilians to take responsible steps toward peace and security.
“This development reflects the growing trust between the community and security forces, showing that peaceful dialogue can lead to concrete actions that benefit public safety,” Mantes said.
Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, Commander of the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade, lauded the coordinated efforts of local stakeholders that ensured the proper turnover and documentation of the firearm. He noted that such cooperation strengthens grassroots peace initiatives and reinforces the campaign against loose firearms.
Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Leonardo I. Peña, Commander of Joint Task Force Orion and the 11th Infantry Division, welcomed the surrender as a clear indication of increasing public confidence in government-led peacebuilding programs and community collaboration.
“This voluntary act sends a strong message that the people of Sulu are partners in building a safer and more peaceful environment,” Peña said.
The 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division reiterated its call for continued public cooperation, stressing its commitment to initiatives that promote stability, safety, and the establishment of gun-free communities across Sulu.