ZAMBOANGA. A member of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) voluntarily surrendered a loose firearm on May 20, 2026, to the 101st Infantry Battalion (101IB), underscoring growing support among former MNLF combatants for the government's peace and security initiatives in Sulu province.
Details of the Surrender
Lieutenant Colonel Dante Mantes, commander of the 101IB, reported that the firearm was handed over by Ahadi Bual, 60, an MNLF member and resident of Bitinan Island, Capual village, Omar, Sulu. The turned-over weapon consisted of one caliber .45 pistol with one magazine and live ammunition. The handover was facilitated by Capual Village Chairperson Arsher Asmawil.
Mantes emphasized that the successful surrender was made possible through sustained community engagement efforts, coordinated closely with the police, village officials, and municipal government representatives. These efforts support the maintenance of Omar municipality as a Rido-Free, Gun-Free, and Peace-Centered Community (RFGFPCC).
Military Commendation and Commitment
Brigadier General Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, commander of the 1102nd Infantry Brigade, commended Bual for his voluntary action and reaffirmed the brigade's commitment to sustaining peace and security initiatives in the province.
"The voluntary handover of firearms by our brothers from the MNLF reflects the growing trust and cooperation among communities, former combatants, local government units, and security forces in our shared pursuit of lasting peace in Sulu. These efforts greatly contribute to the preservation of peace, stability, and public safety across the province," Delos Santos stated.
He added that the brigade continues to intensify peacebuilding, community engagement, and firearm recovery efforts in partnership with local stakeholders to sustain the gains of the RFGFPCC campaign across Sulu. Since January 1, 2026, a total of 155 assorted firearms have been recovered by the 1102nd Brigade through the RFGFPCC campaign.
