Sulu Villages Surrender High-Powered Firearms in Peace Initiative
In a significant step toward peace, residents from two villages in Siasi, Sulu, voluntarily surrendered high-powered firearms on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. This action followed extensive community engagement involving security forces and local government units, as confirmed by officials on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.
Details of the Firearms Turnover
The surrendered weapons included one M1 Garand rifle, one M1 Carbine rifle, and one M79 grenade launcher. Lieutenant Colonel Roy Dalumpines, commander of the 104th Infantry Battalion, reported that his command, along with the Siasi Municipal Police Station, received these firearms. The turnover was facilitated by Duhol Tara Village Chairperson Mustadi Jalali and Luuk Tara Village Chairperson Badriya, who coordinated closely with the police.
Local Government Support and Campaign Goals
Siasi Mayor Ben Sayeed Muksan emphasized that this initiative supports the ongoing campaign for a gun-free community. It aligns with the implementation of the Municipal Task Force to End Local Armed Conflict (MTF-Elac). Mayor Muksan stated that the surrender reinforces the municipality's commitment to maintaining a peace-centered environment, a status officially declared on February 8, 2026.
Partnership and Community Collaboration
Brigadier General Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, commander of the 1102nd Infantry Brigade, highlighted that voluntary surrenders like this reflect the strong partnership between communities and security forces. He noted that such collaborations are crucial for sustaining peace efforts in the region. The 11th Infantry Division units, including the 1102nd Infantry Brigade and 104th Infantry Battalion, have partnered with the police and municipal government to achieve and uphold the gun-free declaration.
Broader Implications for Peace and Security
This event marks a positive development in Siasi's journey toward becoming a model for peace-centered communities. The successful surrender of firearms demonstrates the effectiveness of grassroots engagement and inter-agency cooperation. Authorities believe that continued efforts in this direction will further reduce armed conflicts and enhance public safety in Sulu.
