LUUK, Sulu — Sustained grassroots efforts to curb armed violence are gaining significant traction in Sulu’s second district, with a total of 116 assorted firearms voluntarily surrendered and recovered since the start of 2026, military officials reported.
The figure includes high- and low-powered weapons turned over under the government’s Rido-Free, Gun-Free, and Peace-Centered Communities (RFGFPCC) campaign—an initiative aimed at dismantling the root causes of clan feuds, or rido, and preventing further bloodshed. Notably, 12 firearms were surrendered between April 12 and 16 alone, signaling continued momentum on the ground.
According to the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade, the steady stream of voluntary handovers reflects a growing level of public trust and a shared commitment among residents to reduce violence and promote stability in their communities.
“These developments show that communities are no longer just passive recipients of security efforts—they are becoming active partners in peacebuilding,” the brigade said.
The gains were attributed to strengthened coordination among Philippine Army units, the Philippine National Police (PNP), local government units (LGUs), and barangay leaders, whose roles have proven critical in facilitating dialogue and encouraging residents to relinquish unlicensed firearms.
In the municipality of Pata, Lt. Col. Roy R. Dalumpines, commander of the 104th Infantry “Para sa Bayan” Battalion, reported the surrender of three firearms from April 12 to 16. The handover was made possible through joint facilitation by Army and police personnel, backed by strong support from local officials.
Meanwhile, in Panamao, Lt. Col. Ronald A. Borras, head of the 21st Infantry “Invincible” Battalion, said six firearms were turned over across five barangays from April 13 to 15. He emphasized the crucial role of grassroots leaders in persuading residents to voluntarily comply and in diffusing potential flashpoints of violence.
In Banguingui, Lt. Col. Dante E. Mantes of the 101st Infantry “Sajahitra” Battalion reported the surrender of three firearms, citing intensified community engagement efforts and information campaigns conducted in partnership with LGUs and other stakeholders.
Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino P. Delos Santos, commander of the 1102nd Infantry Brigade, underscored the broader impact of the campaign, noting that each surrendered firearm represents a potential life saved.
“Each firearm handed over is a potential conflict prevented. These gains reflect not just compliance, but a growing culture of peace among our communities,” Delos Santos said.
Military officials stressed that the RFGFPCC campaign remains a cornerstone of the government’s peace and security strategy in Sulu, aiming not only to reduce the proliferation of weapons but also to strengthen local governance and create conditions conducive to long-term development.
With continued cooperation from communities and local leaders, authorities expressed optimism that the campaign will further weaken the drivers of armed conflict and pave the way for lasting peace in the province.