Sulu Peace Campaign Gains Momentum as Civilians Surrender 95 Firearms
The campaign for rido-free, gun-free, and peace-centered communities in Sulu continues to gain significant ground, with civilians voluntarily handing over 95 assorted firearms to authorities since January 1 of this year. This remarkable development reflects deepening public trust and a growing commitment to lasting peace in the province, as officials reported on Thursday, April 2.
Recent Firearm Handovers Highlight Grassroots Efforts
On Wednesday, April 1, troops from the 104th Infantry Battalion (104IB) and the 21st Infantry Battalion (21IB), both under the 1102nd Infantry Brigade of the Sulu-based 11th Infantry Division, facilitated the handover of three firearms through separate engagements with local stakeholders. In Tapul town, Lieutenant Colonel Roy Dalumpines, commander of the 104IB, reported that troops from Bravo Company, led by First Lieutenant Jaythron Dumaga, coordinated with the Municipal Police Station to facilitate the surrender of two short firearms at the town hall.
The firearms included one caliber .45 pistol and one caliber .38 revolver, voluntarily handed over through the initiative of Alu Kabingaan Village Chairperson Nehada Daud and Kaumpang Village Chief Abraham Ingoh. This action demonstrates the proactive role of local leaders in sustaining peace and order, showcasing how community-driven efforts are pivotal to the campaign's success.
Strengthened Cooperation Across Communities
Meanwhile, in the town of Panglima Estino, Lieutenant Colonel Ronald Borras, commander of the 21IB, disclosed that troops from Bravo Company, under First Lieutenant Restituto Dalogdog Jr., together with personnel from the Municipal Police Station led by Police Captain Bert Francisco, facilitated the handover of one high-powered firearm—an M1 Garand rifle—in Tiptipon village. Borras emphasized that this successful handover was made possible through the initiative of Tiptipon Village Chairperson Rowesman Ammar, in coordination with village officials, highlighting strengthened grassroots cooperation in support of peace initiatives.
This growing trend of voluntary surrenders underscores the effectiveness of localized peace engagements, where community members and leaders work hand-in-hand with military and police forces to reduce the prevalence of loose firearms.
Military Leaders Commend Progress and Emphasize Sustainability
Brigadier General Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, commander of the 1102Bde, underscored that the increasing number of voluntary firearm handovers is a clear indicator that the government's peace campaign is taking root at the community level. Delos Santos emphasized that these collective efforts are instrumental in sustaining peace gains and preventing the resurgence of violence, which has historically plagued the region due to rido or clan feuds.
Major General Leonardo Peña, commander of 11ID and Joint Task Force-Orion, commended the troops and stakeholders for their continued commitment to peacebuilding efforts. Peña stated that the reduction of loose firearms through voluntary means remains a vital component in maintaining security and enabling long-term development across the province of Sulu. He added that the 11ID, in close coordination with partner stakeholders, continues to strengthen localized peace engagements and encourages more communities to actively support initiatives that promote safety, stability, and lasting peace.
The campaign's success, marked by the surrender of 95 firearms since the start of the year, signals a positive shift towards a more secure and peaceful Sulu, driven by the collaborative spirit of its residents and leaders.
