ZAMBOANGA CITY – The ongoing campaign against the proliferation of loose firearms in Maguindanao del Sur witnessed a significant development on August 23, 2023. As part of the 1st Mechanized Brigade’s relentless efforts, 24 loose firearms were surrendered by local officials in the area.
Chairpersons from 19 barangays in General Salipada K. Pendatun (GSKP) town handed over their loose firearms to Lt. Col. Jayson Domingo, the Commanding Officer of the 1st Mechanized Battalion, during a formal turnover ceremony held at the Municipal Gymnasium. GSKP Mayor Rafsanjani Ali presided over the event, and the surrendered firearms were received by Brig. Gen. Andre Santos, Commander of the 1st Mech Bde. Notable attendees included Police Cpt. Lucky Siegfred Sibayan, Chief of Police of GSKP Municipal Police Station, Vice-Mayor Norodin Masukat, Mr. Eusoph G Kari, Election Officer of GSKP, and the nineteen barangay chairpersons, led by Mr. Abraham Masukat, ABC President of GSKP, along with the Sangguniang Bayan of GSKP.
The surrendered arms included a range of weaponry such as sub-machine guns, pistols, sniper rifles, shotguns, grenade launchers, and rifles, along with assorted ammunition. These items are currently under the custody of the 1Mech Bn for safekeeping and proper disposition.
In a related context, Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, Commander of Western Mindanao Command, emphasized the heightened campaign against loose firearms in anticipation of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections in October. This effort aims to ensure an honest, orderly, and peaceful election process, affirming the public’s right to vote without fear.
AFP Vice Chief of Staff Visits WestMinCom
On August 24, 2023, Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura, Vice Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), paid a visit to the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom). Welcomed with military honors, Lt. Gen. Cordura’s visit was part of his supervisory role over General Headquarters Units, Unified Commands, and AFP-Wide Service Support Units (AFPWSSUS).
During his visit, he also conducted a Gender and Development Advocacy Brief, addressing WestMinCom’s military and civilian personnel. In his address, Lt. Gen. Cordura commended the unit for their achievements and encouraged them to maintain their dedication and momentum.
The juxtaposition of these two events highlights the multifaceted efforts of the armed forces in securing peace, stability, and progress in the region, encompassing both security measures and broader advocacies.
