Parang, Sulu – In a significant step towards fostering peace and security, ten barangays in the municipality of Parang were officially declared as Gun-Free Zones and Peace-Centered Communities. The initiative, led by the Local Government Unit of Parang under the leadership of Mayor Alkhadar T. Loong, took place on January 23, 2025, at the Hji Laling Hassan Memorial Circle, Municipal Plaza, Barangay Poblacion, Parang, Sulu.
The barangays included in the declaration are Poblacion, Buton, Tumangas, Kanaway, Lagasan Higad, Lumbaan Mahaba, Tainting, Nonokan, Liang, and Laum Suwah. The event was attended by key stakeholders, including the 1101st Infantry (Gagandilan) Brigade, headed by Brigadier General Mario D. Jacinto, Philippine Army (PA), along with Colonel Yasser R. Bara, MNSA (MI) PA, Deputy Brigade Commander, and Captain Cesar S. Gayguer Jr., Infantry PA, Brigade Civil-Military Operations Officer.
The declaration was organized by the 41st Infantry (Partner for Peace) Battalion, led by Lieutenant Colonel Genesis R. Gabrido, INF (GSC) PA, Commanding Officer. In his message, Brig. Gen. Jacinto commended the barangay officials for embracing the initiative and emphasized the importance of a gun-free and peace-driven community. He highlighted that this effort marks a crucial step in ensuring long-term peace and development in Sulu. Furthermore, he urged residents to uphold unity, discipline, and accountability in maintaining safety, particularly in light of the upcoming 2025 elections and the ongoing implementation of the gun ban.
The program also saw the presence of Vice Mayor Madzhar T. Loong, Ms. Najia N. Harud of Zambasul Nonviolent PeaceForce Philippines, Provincial Director of the Sulu Police Provincial Office, Police Colonel Jeff Briones Uy, and Hji Zaldy Sadjail, Focal Person of the Municipal Task Force to End Local Armed Conflict (MTF-ELAC), along with other barangay officials.
This declaration aims to reinforce Sulu’s continuous progress in peacebuilding, tourism, and development, signaling a commitment to a safer and more prosperous future for its communities.