The Kapalawan Provincial Committee of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has turned over at least nine firearms belonging to the New People’s Army (NPA) to the military in Carmen, Cotabato.

According to the 1002nd Infantry Brigade of the 10th Infantry Division, the ceremonial turnover was held through a local peace engagement facilitated by the local government officials.

The firearms include two M653 rifles; two M14 rifles; three garand rifles; an M203 Grenade launcher; and an M16 rifle.

These firearms reportedly belonged to the dismantled Guerilla Front 53 of the NPA’s sub-regional committee 3 (SRC 3) and were under the safekeeping of the Kapalawan Provincial committee previously.

“This initiative aligns with the recent declaration of Cotabato Province as New People’s Army (NPA)-free on October 8, 2024,” the 1002nd Infantry Brigade  said.

“As part of its Conflict Transformation Program, the 1002nd Brigade, thru its Operationally Controlled (OpCon) units, continues to account for and inventory all remaining firearms while assisting former rebels reintegrate into society. This collective effort underscores the commitment of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to achieving sustainable peace and development in the region,” it added.