Multiple communities in Sulu voluntarily surrendered firearms to military and police forces on March 28, 2026, marking significant progress in the province's ongoing Gun-Free, Peace-Centered Community (GFPCC) campaign aimed at reducing armed violence and establishing lasting peace.
The 1102nd Infantry "Ganarul" Brigade of the 11th Infantry "Alakdan" Division, Philippine Army, coordinated the multi-location handover operations with local government officials and law enforcement agencies across several barangays in Panamao and Luuk municipalities.
According to the Philippine Army's 11th Infantry Division, the coordinated efforts resulted in the surrender of both high-powered and low-powered weapons, including automatic firearms and a grenade launcher, demonstrating growing community trust in government peace initiatives.
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Panamao Operation Yields High-Powered Weapons
In Barangay Tubig Gantang, Panamao, troops from Charlie Company of the 21st Infantry "Invincible" Battalion facilitated the handover of two Ingram M10 submachine guns with defaced serial numbers. Captain Elmer S. Dancel Jr. led the military contingent during the March 28 operation.
The weapons surrender was initiated through Barangay Chairman Yaser H. Jakarain, working in coordination with Abdulajad M. Hajad of Barangay Lunggang Asin and local barangay council members. The collaborative effort highlighted strong local government support for disarmament initiatives in the area.
The defaced serial numbers on the surrendered automatic weapons indicate their likely use in illegal activities, making their removal from circulation particularly significant for community safety efforts.
Joint Operations in Luuk Result in Arrests and Seizures
A separate law enforcement support operation in Barangay Tubig Putih, Luuk, resulted in both weapon seizures and arrests. Joint elements from Alpha Company, 101st Infantry "Sajahitra" Battalion, led by First Lieutenant Clent Mark C. Gaitera, worked alongside Luuk Municipal Police Station personnel under Police Captain Buco.
The March 28 operation led to the apprehension of two individuals and the confiscation of two low-powered firearms: one .45 caliber pistol with magazine and one .38 caliber revolver. Municipal Councilor Abdurajik Abas participated in the joint operation.
According to military reports, the seized firearms had been used indiscriminately in the area, prompting the immediate joint response in support of the barangay's Gun-Free and Peace-Centered Community resolution.
Community Declaration Yields Grenade Launcher Surrender
During the formal declaration of Barangay Lingah, Luuk, as a Gun-Free and Peace-Centered Community, residents voluntarily surrendered one M79 grenade launcher to military authorities. The military-grade weapon handover demonstrated the community's commitment to the peace initiative.
Barangay Chairperson Raisa H. Rasad facilitated the weapon surrender in close coordination with Lieutenant Gaitera and troops from the 101st Infantry Battalion. The voluntary nature of the surrender reflected sustained community engagement in peace-building efforts.
The M79 grenade launcher represents one of the most significant weapons voluntarily surrendered under the GFPCC program, indicating the depth of community participation in disarmament efforts.
Battalion Commanders Praise Community Cooperation
Lieutenant Colonel Ronald A. Borras, Commanding Officer of the 21st Infantry Battalion, emphasized that the continued firearm handovers demonstrate the effectiveness of sustained localized peace engagements. He credited the active participation of local government units in addressing community-level security concerns.
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Lieutenant Colonel Dante E. Mantes, who commands the 101st Infantry Battalion, highlighted the significance of prompt joint force response and community cooperation. He stressed the shared responsibility in maintaining peace and order, particularly in areas implementing GFPCC initiatives.
Both commanders noted that the March 28 operations reflected months of community engagement and trust-building between military forces and local populations.
Brigade Commander Cites Growing Public Trust
Brigadier General Alaric Avelino P. Delos Santos, Commander of the 1102nd Infantry Brigade, underscored that the voluntary weapon handovers reflect increasing public trust and support for government peace initiatives throughout Sulu province.
The brigade commander noted that sustained community participation remains vital in maintaining security gains and preventing the resurgence of armed violence that has historically plagued the region.
General Delos Santos emphasized that the success of the GFPCC program depends on continued collaboration between military forces, local government officials, and community leaders.
Division Commander Affirms Whole-of-Government Approach
Major General Leonardo I. Peña, Commander of the 11th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Orion, said the growing number of firearm handovers affirms the effectiveness of coordinated government efforts in promoting peace and stability across Sulu.
General Peña credited the whole-of-government approach, which integrates military operations with civilian government programs and community engagement initiatives, for the program's success.
The division commander noted that the March 28 operations represent part of a broader strategy to address the root causes of armed conflict in the region.
Continued Partnership with Local Stakeholders
The 11th Infantry Division continues supporting the implementation of Rido-Free, Gun-Free, and Peace-Centered Community initiatives across Sulu in partnership with local government units, law enforcement agencies, and other stakeholders.
Military officials indicated that similar operations would continue as more communities express willingness to participate in disarmament and peace-building programs.
The coordinated approach involves sustained engagement with barangay officials, municipal governments, and community leaders to identify areas where weapon proliferation poses threats to public safety.
Photo credit: Photo courtesy of Philippine Army/11th Infantry Division
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