Civilians Voluntarily Hand Over 35 High-Powered Weapons in Maguindanao
In a significant development for regional peace and security, civilians have voluntarily surrendered 35 different types of weapons and war equipment to government authorities in separate towns of Maguindanao del Sur and Maguindanao del Norte. The military announced this positive step on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, highlighting the community's commitment to choosing peace over violence.
Distribution of Surrendered Firearms
Of the total surrendered arsenal, 17 weapons were handed over in the town of Talayan, Maguindanao del Sur, while 18 came from the municipality of Talitay, Maguindanao del Norte. The surrenders took place on Monday, February 16, 2026, during coordinated activities aimed at reducing the proliferation of unlicensed guns in the region.
Military and Local Government Coordination
Lieutenant Colonel William Sabado, commander of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion, initially received the surrendered weapons during separate ceremonies in the two towns. Following this initial acceptance, the firearms were formally turned over to Brigadier General Edgar Catu, commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade. The handover ceremonies were witnessed by representatives of the police force and local officials, underscoring the collaborative effort between military, law enforcement, and community leaders.
Types of Weapons Surrendered
The surrendered weapons included a diverse array of high-powered firearms and military equipment, such as:
- Rifles including the M14 and Garand models
- Sniper rifles for long-range engagements
- 60-millimeter (mm) mortars for indirect fire support
- 9-mm submachine guns for close-quarters combat
- M79 and M203 grenade launchers for explosive projectile deployment
- Rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) for anti-armor capabilities
- 12-gauge shotguns for personal defense
Additionally, the surrender included substantial quantities of ammunition, magazines, and other equipment essential for the operation and maintenance of these firearms.
Military Leadership Response
Brigadier General Edgar Catu expressed profound gratitude for the continued support of the local governments of Talitay and Talayan in the campaign against unlicensed firearms. "The surrender of these weapons is a clear indication that our countrymen are choosing the path of peace over violence," Catu stated. "This is not only a victory for our soldiers but a victory for the entire community that desires a safe and orderly life."
Meanwhile, Major General Jose Vladimir Cagara, commander of the 6th Infantry Division (6ID), emphasized that the continued surrender of firearms reflects the government's intensified campaign for peace and development in the region. "Every weapon surrendered is equivalent to a life saved and a future protected," Cagara remarked. "We continue to call on those who still hold illegal weapons to cooperate with the government."
Foundation for Sustainable Peace
Cagara further highlighted the importance of ongoing cooperation between the armed forces, police forces, and local governments. "With the cooperation of the armed forces, police forces, and local governments, we can further strengthen the foundation of peace and sustainable development in this part of Mindanao," he added. This collaborative approach aims to build a safer environment conducive to long-term stability and progress in the region.
The voluntary surrender of these 35 high-powered weapons represents a tangible step toward reducing armed conflict and enhancing public safety in Maguindanao. It demonstrates the effectiveness of community engagement and government initiatives in promoting peace and security across Mindanao.
