SOUTH UPI, Maguindanao del Sur — A significant step toward strengthening peace and security in the Bangsamoro region was achieved after 48 various loose firearms were voluntarily surrendered during a turnover ceremony held at the Municipal Gymnasium in Barangay Romongaob, South Upi, Maguindanao del Sur.
The successful surrender was facilitated by the 57th Infantry “Masikap” Battalion under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Aeron T. Gumabao of the Philippine Army and under the operational control of the 603rd Infantry Brigade.
The activity formed part of the implementation of the Small Arms and Light Weapons Management Program (SALW-MP) of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), which is aligned with the Philippine National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security (PNAP-WPS). The initiative aims to reinforce inclusive peacebuilding, community empowerment, and human security across conflict-affected areas.
The turnover ceremony coincided with the official launching of the SALW-M Program and the distribution of socio-economic assistance packages to beneficiaries, spearheaded by the Local Government Unit of South Upi in partnership with OPAPRU.
The surrendered firearms were formally presented to Brigadier General Michael A. Santos, Commander of the 603rd Infantry Brigade, alongside Presidential Assistant David B. Diciano, Head of the Bangsamoro Transformation Cluster of OPAPRU; South Upi Mayor Helen A. Padua; Police Colonel Michael John Mangahis, Provincial Director of the Maguindanao del Sur Police Provincial Office; and Dr. Aliuddin Haron, Head Secretariat of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Joint Normalization Committee.
In his message during the ceremony, Brig. Gen. Santos emphasized that the surrender of firearms symbolized more than just the laying down of weapons, describing it as a strong manifestation of transformation and hope for communities long affected by armed conflict.
“Today is not just about 48 firearms laid down—it is about 48 opportunities for peace. Each surrendered weapon represents a life redirected, a family made safer, and a community moving forward. This is proof that when government agencies, local leaders, and our people stand united, peace becomes possible and sustainable,” Santos said.
He further stressed that lasting peace can only be achieved through collective responsibility and cooperation among all sectors of society.
“We are witnessing the strength of a whole-of-nation approach. Peace cannot be achieved by the Armed Forces alone—it requires the commitment of every sector. Let this milestone inspire others to choose dialogue over violence and unity over division. Together, we will continue building a peaceful and progressive Maguindanao del Sur for the next generation,” he added.
Authorities said the event highlighted the strengthened collaboration among the Armed Forces of the Philippines, local government units, law enforcement agencies, OPAPRU, and other stakeholders in advancing sustainable peace and security initiatives in the province.
The 48 surrendered loose firearms were temporarily deposited at the headquarters of the 57th Infantry Battalion for proper custody and safekeeping in accordance with established protocols.
Military officials also reaffirmed the commitment of the 603rd Infantry Brigade, also known as the “Persuader Brigade,” in supporting peace initiatives, empowering conflict-affected communities, and strengthening partnerships aimed at achieving lasting stability and inclusive development in Maguindanao del Sur and neighboring areas.
The latest firearm surrender is seen as another positive development in the continuing normalization and peacebuilding efforts in the Bangsamoro region, where government agencies and local com