KALINGALAN CALUANG, Sulu — Sustained collaboration among military troops, local government officials, and the Philippine National Police (PNP) has resulted in the successful handover of another loose firearm in Barangay Tunggol, reinforcing the government’s campaign for peaceful and gun-free communities in Sulu.
The latest accomplishment was recorded on May 15 under the Rido-Free, Gun-Free, and Peace-Centered Community (RFGFPCC) Campaign being implemented by Task Group “Ganarul” in the second district of Sulu.
According to Ronald Borras, commanding officer of the 21st Infantry “Invincible” Battalion, troops from Alpha Company led by 1st Lt. Tom Troy B. Tanzo facilitated the voluntary surrender of one low-powered firearm from a civilian resident in Barangay Tunggol.
The surrendered weapon was identified as a Colt caliber .45 pistol with one empty magazine.
Lt. Col. Borras said the successful handover was made possible through the initiative of Barangay Chairman Hon. Moh Jabar U. Adjak in close coordination with barangay councilors and Rukaiza Arip, chief of police of the Kalingalan Caluang Municipal Police Station.
Military officials emphasized that the continued support of local leaders and residents has become a crucial factor in advancing the government’s campaign against loose firearms and strengthening peace and order efforts across the province.
PCpt. Arip underscored the importance of maintaining strong cooperation between communities and security forces to preserve peace and public safety in the municipality.
“This accomplishment demonstrates the willingness of our communities to support government efforts in maintaining peace and order. Through strong cooperation and mutual trust, we can further strengthen our campaign against loose firearms and help preserve the peaceful environment in Kalingalan Caluang,” Arip said.
Meanwhile, Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, commander of the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade, lauded local government officials, police personnel, and residents for their continued support of peace initiatives in Sulu.
“This accomplishment reflects the growing trust and cooperation between our communities and security forces. Through unity and shared responsibility, we continue to encourage the handover of loose firearms and sustain our gains toward a more peaceful and secure Sulu under the RFGFPCC Campaign of Task Group ‘Ganarul,’” Brig. Gen. Delos Santos said.
Authorities said the latest firearm surrender forms part of a broader campaign to curb armed violence, prevent clan-related conflicts or “rido,” and strengthen community-based peacebuilding initiatives in Sulu.
Data from the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade showed that since January 1, 2026, government troops have already recovered a total of 154 assorted high-powered and low-powered firearms across the province in support of the government’s drive for peaceful, stable, and gun-free communities.
Security officials expressed optimism that the continued cooperation among residents, local officials, and law enforcement agencies would further encourage the voluntary surrender of loose firearms and help sustain peace gains in Sulu’s conflict-affected areas.