COTABATO CITY: Three high-powered firearms were handed over by the municipal mayor of Tamparan, Lanao del Sur to the 5th Infantry Battalion (5IB) on September 22.
Mayor Juhar Disomimba turned over two M16 rifles and one 5.56mm Bushmaster rifle to 5IB commander Lt. Col. Victor-Czar Villanueva at the 5IB headquarters in Kampo Agila, Barangay Ragayan, Poona Bayabao.
The turnover was made possible through the concerted effort and intensified collaboration of the security forces, local chief executives and other stakeholders.
“This is part of our campaign against the proliferation of loose firearms so that the locals would feel more secure and safe in their daily activities,” Brig. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, commander of Joint Task Force ZamPeLan said.
Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr., commander of Western Mindanao Command, urged the troops to continue their efforts in pursuing lasting peace in Southwestern Philippines.
“Carry on your good work and continue to step up the momentum for the accomplishment of our mission,” Rosario said.