Maguindanao del Sur civilians urged to back loose firearms drive

COTABATO CITY  — The military has encouraged the public in Maguindanao del Sur to continue supporting the government’s campaign against loose firearms, with civilians surrendering at least 34 unlicensed guns anew in the province.

Lt. Col. Loqui Marco, commander of the 90th Infantry Battalion, facilitated the surrender and turnover on Wednesday of the firearms to Brig. Gen. Gremel Brual, commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade, at the battalion headquarters in Datu Saudi Ampatuan town.

Brual lauded the local government leaders and other stakeholders for their continued support for the government’s campaign against illegal firearms.

Article continues after this advertisement

READ: 28 loose firearms surrendered in Caraga

FEATURED STORIES

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

He said the voluntary surrender of firearms underscored the importance of cooperation among local governments, security forces, and communities in maintaining safe, peaceful, and orderly communities.

“Through our unity, cooperation, and the responsible participation of every citizen, we can strengthen the security and stability of our province,” Brual said.

“Your continued support for the campaign against the proliferation of illegal firearms is essential to achieving a peaceful Bangsamoro for present and future generations,” he added.

The 601st Infantry Brigade said it would continue to coordinate with local government units, barangays and other stakeholders to sustain efforts toward lasting peace, security and stability in the Bangsamoro region.

Article continues after this advertisement

Among the surrendered firearms were 81mm mortar tubes, home-made sniper rifles, rocket-propelled grenade launchers, Garand rifles, and ammunition.

READ: DILG chief wants 20-year jail terms for loose firearms charges

Article continues after this advertisement

Attending the turnover ceremony were Datu Saudi Ampatuan Mayor Datu Bassir Utto; Roger Dionisio of the Office of the Governor of Maguindanao del Sur; Datu Hoffer Sangguniang Bayan member Harris Ampatuan; Ampatuan municipal administrator Abdulbasit Langcap; and Datu Unsay municipal planning and development coordinator Carlo Bon Perjes./coa