The ongoing Rido-Free, Gun-Free, and Peace-Centered Community campaign spearheaded by the 104th Infantry Battalion has achieved a significant breakthrough with the voluntary surrender of seven firearms in Tapul, Sulu. This development marks a pivotal moment in peacebuilding efforts within the region, demonstrating growing community trust and collaboration with military authorities.
Voluntary Firearms Handover Details
On Monday, March 30, 2026, troops from Bravo Company of the 104th Infantry Battalion, under the leadership of 1st Lieutenant Jaythron Dumaga, coordinated with the Tapul Municipal Police Station to facilitate the handover of two key firearms. The surrendered items included one M1 Garand rifle and one 40-mm M203 grenade launcher, which were voluntarily relinquished by civilians in the villages of Kaumaungi and Pagatpat.
Community Leadership Involvement
The firearms were formally presented by local village chairpersons, highlighting grassroots participation in the peace initiative. Kaumaungi Village Chairperson Nurhana Undog and Pagatpat Village Chairperson Abdulhamid Muhajil played instrumental roles in facilitating the surrender, underscoring the campaign's emphasis on community-led efforts to reduce armed conflicts and promote stability.
Military Command Recognition and Commitment
Lieutenant Colonel Roy Dalumpines, commander of the 104th Infantry Battalion, confirmed the handover and praised the voluntary cooperation of civilians. The 104IB operates under the 1102nd Infantry Brigade of the 11th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, which has been actively engaged in peace initiatives across Sulu.
Brigadier General Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, commander of the 1102nd Infantry Brigade, commended the local communities for their cooperation, stating that these developments reflect increasing trust in the National Government's peace programs. He reiterated the brigade's unwavering commitment to sustaining momentum toward establishing Rido-Free and Gun-Free communities throughout Sulu.
High-Level Military Endorsement
Major General Leonardo Peña, commander of the 11th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force-Orion, lauded the troops and stakeholders involved in the campaign. He emphasized that the voluntary firearms handovers are a testament to the success of whole-of-government approaches in addressing conflicts and enhancing internal stability. Peña noted that such actions highlight the progress of security initiatives in Sulu as communities actively contribute to fostering a peaceful and stable environment.
Campaign Impact and Future Outlook
The surrender of seven firearms since the campaign's launch signals a positive shift in community attitudes toward peace and security. This initiative, part of broader efforts to eliminate clan feuds (rido) and illegal firearms, aims to create safer, more cohesive communities in Sulu. The continued collaboration between military units, local police, and civilian leaders is expected to drive further advancements in peacebuilding, with authorities optimistic about replicating this success in other areas.
