Local leaders and candidates running in the 2025 elections have turned over 21 guns during a candidates’ forum in Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur on Tuesday, January 28, 2025.
The firearms include rifles, shotguns, and pistols.
The local leaders and candidates who surrendered their firearms are from the towns of Ampatuan, Datu Abdulla Sangki, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Datu Unsay, Datu Hoffer, and Shariff Aguak.
“Layunin nito na ipakita ang kanilang pangako at suporta para maging ligtas at mapayapa ang darating na 2025 National and Local Elections at BARMM Parliamentary Elections gayundin ang pagtalima sa Small Arms and Light Weapons Management (SALW) Program,” Col. Edgar Catu, commander of the 601 Infantry Brigade, said.
6Th Infantry Division commander, Brigadier General Donald Gumiran, also lauded the military troops, police, and elections officers for the success of the activity.
“Ikinagagalak namin ang sinsiridad at taos-pusong partisipasyon ng mga lokal na kandidato sa eleksyon, kasundaluhan, kapulisan, at gayun din ang mga COMELEC Officials sa pagtutulungan upang matiyak ang pagiging ligtas, payapa, at maayos na pagsasagawa sa nalalapit na 2025 NLE & BARMM Parliamentary Elections,” Gumiran said.