Up to 38 high-powered and low-powered guns were turned over to the military in Maguindanao del Sur.

These firearms include three mortar 60mm; two shotguns; four grenade launcher; four RPG 40mm; Carbine 5.56mm; 15 sub-machine guns; nine caliber .38 and caliber .45 pistols.

According to the 33rd Infantry Battalion, the loose firearms were surrendered by residents in support of the “Balik-Baril” program of the local government units of Shariff Aguak, Datu Abdullah Sangki, Sultan sa Barongis, Mamasapano, and Radjah Buayan.

“Ikinagagalak ko ang sama-samang pagsisikap ng mga kasundaluhan at mga local na pinuno ng munisipyo kasama ang mga residente sa pagsisikap na magkaroon ng mapayapang komunidad na pakikinabangan ng lahat ng mamamayan,” 6th Infantry Division (6ID) Commander, Major Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, said.

Lt. Gen. William Gonzales, commander of the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom), lauded the Joint Task Force (JTF) Central in its campaign against the proliferation of loose firearms.

“Let us sustain our steadfast commitment to peace and security of Bangsamoro region by continuously fighting against the proliferation of loose firearms,” Gonzales said.

“All these efforts, of course, are anchored on the commitment to comprehensively live out BTF-ELAC’s resolution no.001 which not only campaigns against all forms of armed conflicts but as well as the illegal possession of firearms,” Gonzales added.