Nineteen more firearms were voluntarily surrendered by owners in two Central Mindanao towns, marking another milestone in the regionโs ongoing disarmament campaign. This initiative, part of the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) Management Program, complements the governmentโs broader peace process in Mindanao, fostering hope for a safer and more stable future.
The firearms, handed over during separate symbolic ceremonies on Monday, February 10, are now under the joint custody of the 6th Infantry Division (6th ID), the 90th Infantry Battalion, and the Navyโs 2nd Marine Battalion.
The ceremonies took place in Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur, and Matanog, Maguindanao del Norte, with local military units and community leaders working hand-in-hand to encourage residents to participate in the program.
‘Building Trust’
Army Brig. Gen. Donald Gumiran, commander of the 6th ID, emphasized the importance of this initiative during a press briefing on Tuesday, February 11.
โThis program is not just about collecting firearms; itโs about building trust and ensuring that peace continues to flourish in areas once plagued by conflict,โ he said.
The Army’s 6th ID implemented the SALW Management Program. In collaboration with Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez, Jr. the program aims to sustain the fragile peace,
The region, once a stronghold of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). It has seen remarkable progress in recent years due to these disarmament efforts.
Since its launch in 2024, the program has gained significant traction. Authorities had recovered some 721 combat weapons. These weapons include high-powered firearms like M79 grenade launchers, B40 rocket launchers, and M60 machine guns.
The campaign spans six provinces: Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato, and Sarangani.
Crucial Role in Firearms Surrender
Local military units and government officials have played a crucial role in convincing residents to participate. โThis is a collective effort,โ said a spokesperson for the 90th Infantry Battalion. โWeโre working closely with community leaders to ensure everyone understands the importance of this program for our shared future.โ
The recent surrenders in Datu Saudi Ampatuan and Matanog are a testament to the growing trust between residents and authorities.
More residents sureendered their firearms, records showed. And the region moves closer to its goal of reducing armed violence and creating an environment where communities can thrive.
With each weapon surrendered, Central Mindanao takes another step toward a brighter, more peaceful tomorrow. The success of the program serves as a powerful reminder it can succeed even in areas with a history of conflict.
