BANGUINGUI, Sulu — The municipality of Banguingui took a significant step toward achieving its goal of becoming a Rido-Free, Gun-Free, and Peace-Centered Community (RFGFPCC) after local officials voluntarily turned over a crew-served weapon to government authorities during a ceremonial hand-over activity in Barangay Dungon on Saturday, June 13.
The turnover involved one Browning M1919 .30 caliber machine gun with tripod, a crew-served weapon voluntarily surrendered by the local government as part of ongoing peacebuilding efforts and preparations for the municipality’s official RFGFPCC declaration.
According to Lt. Col. Dante Mantes, Commanding Officer of the 101st Infantry “Sajahitra” Battalion, the activity was facilitated by troops from Charlie Company under the leadership of 1st Lt. Jesson C. Peñaflor, in coordination with personnel from the Banguingui Municipal Police Station and the Philippine Coast Guard Sub-Station Banguingui.
The weapon was officially handed over by the municipal government through Hon. Ridzwan Sariul, Municipal Councilor and Chairman of the Municipal Peace and Order Committee, representing Banguingui Mayor Hon. Widzfar “Nikee” Sahidulla.
Military officials described the turnover as a major milestone in the municipality’s pursuit of lasting peace and security, emphasizing that the initiative was made possible through strong collaboration among the Philippine Army, Philippine National Police, Philippine Coast Guard, barangay officials, and the local government unit.
Lt. Col. Mantes said the voluntary surrender of the weapon underscores the commitment of local leaders and residents to support peace initiatives and strengthen community security.
“This accomplishment reflects the commitment of the local government and the people of Banguingui to support peace initiatives and strengthen community security. It is a manifestation of our collective effort to achieve a peaceful and gun-free community,” Mantes said.
The RFGFPCC program seeks to eliminate clan feuds or “rido,” reduce the proliferation of loose firearms, and foster peaceful, law-abiding communities across conflict-affected areas. The campaign has become a cornerstone of the government’s peace and development strategy in Sulu, where local governments and security forces work together to address long-standing security concerns through community engagement and voluntary disarmament.
Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino P. Delos Santos, Commander of the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade, said the successful hand-over demonstrates the effectiveness of the LGU-Led, Security Sector-Supported, and Community-Based (LSC) Program in advancing the RFGFPCC Campaign throughout the Second District of Sulu.
He noted that the voluntary surrender of war materiel reflects the growing trust between communities and government security forces, highlighting the crucial role played by local leaders in sustaining peace efforts.
“The voluntary hand-over of war materiel reflects the growing trust between our communities and security forces. Through the LGU-Led, Security Sector-Supported, and Community-Based Program, local leaders are taking the lead in promoting peace, upholding the rule of law, and supporting the RFGFPCC Campaign. This partnership continues to pave the way for a safer, more peaceful, and more progressive Sulu,” Delos Santos said.
The hand-over also adds to the growing number of weapons recovered through the brigade’s peace campaign. Since January 1, 2026, the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade has facilitated the recovery of three crew-served weapons and 178 assorted firearms across the Second District of Sulu under the RFGFPCC initiative.
The recovered weapons include one 60mm mortar, one .30 caliber machine gun, one Light Anti-Tank Weapon (LAW), and numerous high- and low-powered firearms voluntarily surrendered by individuals and local stakeholders.
Security officials believe these gains demonstrate increasing community support for disarmament and conflict-resolution efforts, contributing to a more stable environment conducive to development and economic progress.
As Banguingui moves closer to its declaration as a Rido-Free, Gun-Free, and Peace-Centered Community, authorities expressed optimism that the municipality’s example will encourage other communities in Sulu to embrace similar peacebuilding initiatives.
The 1102nd Infantry Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to continue working closely with local government units, law enforcement agencies, traditional leaders, and community stakeholders to sustain peace gains, prevent the resurgence of armed conflict, and promote conflict-free and gun-free communities throughout the province.
Officials said the latest turnover serves as a powerful symbol of unity and cooperation, demonstrating that peace can be achieved when local communities, government leaders, and security forces work together toward a common goal of lasting stability and development.