JOLO, Sulu — Strengthened collaboration among government forces, local leaders, and communities continues to produce concrete gains in Sulu, as troops facilitated the voluntary handover of loose firearms in separate engagements on March 29, 2026—an effort seen as a significant step toward building Rido-Free, Gun-Free, and Peace-Centered communities.
The initiative was carried out by troops under the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade of the 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division, reflecting what military officials described as growing public trust in government-led peace and security programs in the province.
Lt. Col. Roy R. Dalumpines, commanding officer of the 104th Infantry “Para sa Bayan” Battalion, reported that in Lugus, Sulu, soldiers from Bravo Company led by 1st Lt. Jaythron L. Dumaga facilitated the turnover of a Colt MK IV caliber .45 pistol. The firearm was voluntarily surrendered by a civilian through the assistance of Barangay Bas Lugus Chairperson Nursalima A. Asaali.
Dalumpines emphasized that the development highlights increasing confidence among residents in the government’s peace initiatives, noting that community participation is key to sustaining security gains in historically conflict-affected areas.
In a separate operation in Panamao, Sulu, Lt. Col. Ronald A. Borras, commander of the 21st Infantry “Invincible” Battalion, said troops from Charlie Company under Capt. Elmer S. Dancel facilitated the surrender of two M1 Garand rifles through coordinated community engagements.
One of the firearms was turned over through the initiative of Barangay Tayungan Chairperson Johnson S. Jamiul, in coordination with barangay officials and the Panamao Municipal Police Station. The second rifle was surrendered through the efforts of Barangay Kansipat Chairperson Hja. Imelda T. Idris, with support from local stakeholders.
Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino P. Delos Santos, commander of the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade, underscored that these developments are the result of strengthened partnerships among security forces, local government units, and communities.
“These efforts reflect a shared commitment to sustaining peace and order across Sulu,” Delos Santos said, stressing the importance of continued cooperation to address long-standing security concerns, including clan feuds or “rido.”
Maj. Gen. Leonardo I. Peña, commander of the 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division and Joint Task Force Orion, echoed this sentiment, saying that the active involvement of local leaders and civilians is vital in consolidating peace gains and paving the way for long-term development.
The military reiterated its full support for ongoing initiatives aimed at transforming Sulu into a province free from armed violence and conflict, emphasizing that sustained collaboration will be key to ensuring lasting peace, stability, and inclusive development for its communities.