PANDAMI, Sulu — The sustained implementation of the government’s Rido-Free, Gun-Free, and Peace-Centered Community (RFGFPCC) Campaign continues to yield positive results in Sulu, as a community report regarding an indiscriminate firing incident led to the voluntary surrender of a loose firearm in Pandami town.
The latest incident, which occurred on June 5 in Sitio Bakal, Barangay Hambilan, highlights the growing partnership between local communities and government security forces in maintaining peace and public safety across the province.
According to Lt. Col. Roy R. Dalumpines, Commanding Officer of the 104th Infantry “Para sa Bayan” Battalion, troops from Alpha Company under the leadership of 1st Lt. Carl Lorenz A. Ebon immediately responded after residents reported an alleged indiscriminate firing incident in the area.
Subsequent investigation revealed that the individual involved, identified only by the alias “Jiry,” admitted firing his weapon not to threaten residents but to scare away monkeys that had been destroying his crops. Authorities confirmed that no injuries or casualties resulted from the incident.
Despite the absence of harm, the report underscored the heightened vigilance of local residents and their willingness to promptly relay security concerns to authorities, a development military officials attribute to the continuing success of the RFGFPCC Campaign.
Following discussions with government troops, alias “Jiry” voluntarily surrendered one Colt M1911 pistol, a magazine, and a live .45 caliber round in support of ongoing efforts to eliminate loose firearms and preserve peace and order in the community.
The case marks the sixth reported indiscriminate firing incident in the province since January 1, 2026 that was immediately reported by residents and swiftly addressed by government forces.
Military officials said the trend reflects increasing public confidence in law enforcement agencies and demonstrates a growing culture of accountability among community members.
“This incident highlights the growing confidence of our communities in reporting security concerns and the willingness of residents to cooperate with authorities,” Dalumpines said.
“The prompt reporting by concerned citizens and the subsequent hand-over of the firearm demonstrate the positive impact of the RFGFPCC Campaign in fostering a culture of responsibility, accountability, and peace,” he added.
The RFGFPCC Campaign is being jointly implemented by local government units, the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade of the Philippine Army, and the Philippine National Police. The initiative seeks to address long-standing clan feuds, reduce the proliferation of loose firearms, and strengthen community participation in peacebuilding efforts throughout Sulu.
Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino P. Delos Santos, Commander of the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade, commended the residents of Pandami for their vigilance and active support of government peace and security programs.
“The success of the RFGFPCC Campaign is a testament to the strong partnership among the 1102nd Infantry ‘Ganarul’ Brigade, our LGUs, the PNP, and the people,” Delos Santos said.
“Every report coming from our communities helps prevent violence, promotes public safety, and strengthens our collective efforts to sustain a peaceful and progressive Sulu,” he added.
Authorities emphasized that community cooperation remains a critical component of the campaign’s success, enabling security forces to quickly respond to incidents that could potentially escalate into violence.
Since the start of 2026, the RFGFPCC Campaign has facilitated the recovery of 176 high-powered and low-powered firearms across the Second District of Sulu. Military officials said the significant number of recovered weapons has contributed to reducing armed violence, preventing lawless activities, and enhancing overall security in the province.
Government and military leaders expressed optimism that continued collaboration among residents, local governments, law enforcement agencies, and the military will further strengthen peace and stability in Sulu, while encouraging more individuals to voluntarily surrender loose firearms and support community-driven peace initiatives.