On Monday, civilians in Maguindanao del Sur surrendered eight high-powered firearms, including a 60mm mortar tube, to military authorities.
During a turnover ceremony in Guindulungan, Lt. Col. Robert F. Betita, commander of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion, handed over the weapons to Brig. Gen. Edgar Catu, commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade.
The 60IB stated that the surrender is part of the government’s Small Arms and Light Weapons Management Program, aimed at reducing loose firearms and promoting peace in the region.
Along with the mortar tube, seven grenade launchers were also surrendered by local civilians from Guindulungan town.
Mayor Guiadzali M. Midtimbang emphasized that this act reflects the community’s commitment to peace and support for the government’s peace initiatives.
“This is not only about cooperation of the public in our campaign against loose firearms, it’s about our people’s desire for peace in their communities that have suffered much in previous armed hostilities,” said Brig. Gen. Edgar Catu.