Pata, Sulu Achieves Historic Peace Milestone with Formal Declaration as Rido-Free, Gun-Free Community
The town of Pata in the province of Sulu has reached a significant peace achievement, being formally declared a Rido-Free, Gun-Free, and Peace-Centered Community (RFGFPCC) on Monday, April 20. This declaration was highlighted by the voluntary surrender of nine firearms, which military officials say strengthens community trust and a unified resolve to sustain lasting peace and security.
Ceremonial Turnover and Municipal Resolution
The formal declaration was marked by a ceremony at the municipal hall in Saimbangon village, where Pata Vice Mayor Anton Burahan led the ceremonial turnover of firearms. The surrendered weapons were formally received by Brigadier General Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, commander of the 1102nd Infantry Brigade (1102Bde). The event underscored the community's firm commitment to maintaining a violence-free municipality.
The declaration was formalized through a municipal resolution read by Vice Mayor Burahan, affirming the municipality's collective dedication to uphold peace, prevent conflict, and promote public safety. The 1102Bde stated that this milestone reflects the success of continuous community engagement and strong inter-agency coordination in addressing the root causes of conflict.
Leadership and Community Collaboration
Pata Mayor Abdurauf Burahan expressed gratitude to village leaders, members of the religious sector, the academe, and security forces for their unity and sustained support. He emphasized that continuous dialogue, cooperation, and shared responsibility were instrumental in achieving this declaration. The mayor specifically commended the 104th Infantry Battalion (104IB) for its consistent and meaningful community engagement.
Lieutenant Colonel Roy Dalumpines, commander of the 104IB, highlighted that this milestone demonstrates the effectiveness of confidence-building efforts and inter-agency coordination. Brigadier General Delos Santos added that the declaration is a clear manifestation that peace is achievable when communities take the lead, describing it as a commitment to sustain peace through shared responsibility and vigilance.
Broader Implications and Future Commitments
Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan II commended the strong partnership among stakeholders, stressing that choosing peace is essential to development and long-term stability. He urged the community to safeguard and sustain these gains for future generations, noting that lasting peace begins with the active involvement of village officials and the people.
The declaration ceremony marked the culmination of sustained collaboration among the municipal government of Pata, the 11th Infantry Division through the 104IB under the 1102Bde, and the Sulu Police Provincial Office. The activity was attended by key leaders, local officials, representatives from the religious sector, the academe, and other peace stakeholders.
This achievement in Pata stands as a testament to what can be accomplished through unity, trust, and a shared commitment to peace, further reinforcing the momentum of Sulu's community-driven peace initiatives. The RFGFPCC initiative represents a unified direction toward sustainable peace and development, with security efforts being most effective when communities take ownership in fostering a safe and stable environment.
