Preparations are underway for the official declaration of Pandami town in Sulu province as a Rido-Free, Gun-Free, and Peace-Centered Community, the military said Thursday, April 30, 2026.
Information Briefing for Village Chiefs
The 1102nd Infantry Brigade (1102Bde) reported that part of the preparations included an information briefing conducted on Tuesday, April 28, by the 104th Infantry Battalion (104IB) for village chiefs of all 16 villages in Pandami municipality. The activity aimed to inform and empower local leaders on their crucial role in the successful implementation of the campaign, particularly in promoting a gun-free community that directly benefits the grassroots.
The briefing took place at the headquarters of the 104IB's Alpha Company in Hambilan village, Pandami.
Emphasis on Local Responsibilities
Lieutenant Colonel Roy Dalumpines, commander of the 104IB, stressed the importance of the briefing in strengthening the understanding of village officials regarding their individual responsibilities in maintaining peace and stability within their respective areas. He underscored that each firearm handed over represents a potential conflict prevented, highlighting that these developments signify not only compliance but also a growing culture of peace among communities.
Impact on Peace and Development
The handover of firearms continues to contribute to transforming communities by reducing armed threats, strengthening local governance, and fostering conditions for long-term peace and sustainable development across Sulu province.
The information briefing was spearheaded by the 104IB's Civil-Military Operations (CMO) personnel led by First Lieutenant Roylando Garcia, together with First Lieutenant Carl Lorenz Ebon, Alpha Company commander, and Captain Xandra Lou Basaen of the 2nd CMO Company.
