JOLO, Sulu — The campaign for Rido-Free, Gun-Free, and Peace-Centered Communities (RFGFPCC) in Sulu continues to gain significant ground, as a series of voluntary firearm handovers on April 6 and 7, 2026 highlighted increasing public trust and strengthened community participation in peacebuilding efforts across the province.
The Philippine Army’s 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade, operating under the 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division, reported that the recent developments reflect a growing willingness among civilians, local leaders, and key stakeholders to actively support initiatives aimed at reducing the proliferation of loose firearms and preventing the escalation of clan conflicts, locally known as rido.
Lt. Col. Ronald A. Borras, Commanding Officer of the 21st Infantry “Invincible” Battalion, said that on April 6, troops from Charlie Company facilitated the voluntary surrender of a caliber .45 pistol in Barangay Kawasan, Panamao. The firearm was turned over by a civilian through the initiative of Barangay Chairman Muhasir Usman R. Sabtal.
Borras emphasized that such gestures signal a deepening sense of civic responsibility among residents, noting that communities are increasingly choosing peace over violence.
A day later, a similar development unfolded in Tapul town. Lt. Col. Roy R. Dalumpines, Commanding Officer of the 104th Infantry “Para sa Bayan” Battalion, reported that troops from Bravo Company oversaw the handover of a Colt M16A1 caliber 5.56mm rifle at the Barangay Hall of Pangdan. The turnover was facilitated through the leadership of Barangay Chairman Jawawi L. Alih.
Dalumpines underscored the importance of sustained grassroots engagement, saying it continues to break down long-standing barriers, build trust between communities and authorities, and encourage broader civilian participation in peace initiatives.
In Banguingui, another firearm was surrendered on the same day. Lt. Col. Dante E. Mantes, Commanding Officer of the 101st Infantry “Sajahitra” Battalion, reported that a composite platoon led by 1st Lt. Jesson C. Peñaflor, in coordination with the 104th Infantry Battalion, the Banguingui Municipal Police Station, and the Philippine Coast Guard Sub-Station, facilitated the voluntary handover of an M1 Garand rifle in Barangay Dungon. The initiative was led by Barangay Chairman Den-Mar A. Abdilla.
Mantes highlighted the critical role of unified efforts among security forces and local stakeholders in sustaining peace gains and preventing the resurgence of armed threats in vulnerable communities.
Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino P. Delos Santos, Commander of the 1102nd Infantry Brigade, said the successive handovers demonstrate strengthened collaboration at the grassroots level, adding that proactive community involvement remains essential in maintaining stability in Sulu.
Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Leonardo I. Peña, Commander of the 11th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Orion, stressed that achieving lasting peace goes beyond military operations.
“Peace is best sustained when communities themselves take part in safeguarding it,” Peña said, emphasizing the importance of shared responsibility between security forces and civilians.
Since the start of 2026, the campaign has already led to the recovery of 103 assorted high- and low-powered firearms across Sulu, indicating the expanding reach and effectiveness of coordinated security efforts and community engagement.
The 11th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Orion reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining strong partnerships with local government units, law enforcement agencies, and communities to eliminate loose firearms and promote a lasting culture of peace in the province.