LUUK, Sulu — In a significant push toward long-term peace in one of Mindanao’s historically conflict-affected areas, residents of two barangays in Luuk voluntarily surrendered high-powered firearms as authorities formally declared their communities gun-free.
The 101st Infantry “Sajahitra” Battalion of the Philippine Army, under the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade of the 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division, facilitated the turnover of two caliber .30 M1 Garand rifles on March 18, 2026. The handover coincided with the official declaration of Barangays Guimbaon and Tandu Bato as Gun-Free and Peace-Centered Communities.
Military officials described the development as a concrete sign of strengthening trust between civilians and state forces, a critical component in sustaining peace efforts across Sulu.
Lt. Col. Dante E. Mantes, commanding officer of the 101st Infantry Battalion, said the voluntary surrender of firearms reflects a growing willingness among residents to support government-led peace initiatives. He emphasized that this progress was made possible through close coordination among the Philippine Army, the Philippine National Police, barangay officials, and the local government of Luuk.
“This is a manifestation of the community’s confidence in the government and its security forces. It shows that peacebuilding is gaining ground at the grassroots level,” Mantes said.
Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino P. Delos Santos, commander of the 1102nd Infantry Brigade, echoed the sentiment, underscoring the importance of sustained collaboration among security forces, local governments, and community leaders.
He noted that the successful declaration of gun-free barangays demonstrates how unified efforts can translate into tangible gains in peace and security, particularly in areas long affected by armed violence.
At the operational level, Maj. Gen. Leonardo I. Peña, commander of Joint Task Force Orion and the 11th Infantry Division, said the continued surrender of loose firearms is a key indicator of improving public trust.
“The declaration of Gun-Free Communities, coupled with voluntary firearm handovers, reinforces our commitment to sustain and expand peace gains in Sulu,” Peña said.
Sulu has long grappled with security challenges, including armed groups and clan conflicts. However, initiatives such as community-based disarmament and localized peace engagements have been gaining traction in recent years, contributing to a gradual shift toward stability.
The Philippine Army reaffirmed its commitment to intensify collaboration with local stakeholders to ensure that these gains are not only maintained but expanded. Officials stressed that building peace requires sustained effort—from both security forces and the communities they serve.
The declaration of Barangays Guimbaon and Tandu Bato as gun-free zones marks another step in that direction, signaling cautious optimism for a province striving to turn the page on decades of unrest.