Ben Madilynn
THIRTY loose firearms and six high-explosive caliber .40 millimeter ammunition were surrendered to government authorities in the province of Zamboanga del Sur, the military reported on Saturday, January 11, 2025.
The firearms and ammunition were formally surrendered to the Army’s 53rd Infantry Battalion (53IB) on Friday, January 10, at the gymnasium in Kagawasan, Dimataling, Zamboanga del Sur.
The 53IB reported that the loose firearms, surrendered by unlicensed gun holders, included M-14, Carbine, and Garand rifles, various handguns, and live ammunition.
“The turnover of the loose firearms is evidence of the dedication of all stakeholders to building a peaceful and secure community,” Lieutenant Colonel Rolando Vargas Jr., 53IB commander, said in a statement.
“We will continue to work hand in hand with the local government, local leaders, other government agencies, and non-government organizations to achieve our shared vision of lasting peace in Zamboanga del Sur,” Vargas added.
The surrender of the loose firearms was conducted in partnership with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) through the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) program.
The program aims to collect loose firearms and reduce the occurrence of violent incidents involving the use of guns.
The formal surrender event was attended by key officials, including Zamboanga del Sur Governor Victor Yu; Zamboanga del Sur 1st District Representative Divina Grace Yu; Brigadier General Elmer Suderio, 102nd Infantry Brigade commander; Dimataling Mayor Avelino Yrauda; Dimataling Vice Mayor Omar Buluan; and village officials of Dimataling town. (SunStar Zamboanga)
