KOLAMBUGAN, Lanao del Norte (PIA)--In a significant stride towards fostering a safer environment and upholding community welfare, the 53rd Mechanized Infantry (Magkuno) Company of the Philippine Army, led by Captain Kelvin S. Villanueva, and its partner Local Government Units of Magsaysay, Tangcal, and Tubod witnessed a resounding success in their campaign to collect and neutralize loose firearms.

This collaborative effort yielded a monumental victory for peace and order as it addressed the issue of unregistered and illegally held firearms. This initiative was strategically designed to curb the potential misuse of firearms, reduce the incidence of crime, and significantly bolster the overall security of the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections 2023.

A total of 15 high- and low-powered firearms were handed over at the headquarters of the 53rd Mechanized Infantry Company, namely: two M16A1 rifles, one improvised M16A1 rifle, one improvised 7.62mm Barrett sniper rifle, three improvised shotguns, two improvised grenade launchers, one improvised uzi, three pistol caliber .38 revolvers, and two pistol cal. 45.

Sangguniang Bayan member Ameroden Guinal, representative of Magsaysay Mayor Haron Omar Sr., stated his support in this battle against the proliferation of loose firearms and to continue being vigilant for the said purpose.

This has a big impact on our peace and order; in BARMM we are also doing the same, and I’m happy that here in Lanao del Norte, together we made an important step to our journey to lasting peace," said Engr. Abdul Maomit Tomawis, deputy minister for public works of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao.

Meanwhile, Tangcal Mayor Sittie Aisah Adiong emphasized in his message that unity and solidarity have endless possibilities. She also expressed her gratitude to the men in uniform who worked hard for this initiative to become a reality.

Together, we created a legacy for our generation to come," she said.

Likewise, Tubod Mayor Dionisio Cabahug pointed out that commitment was the key to the success of this activity.

"It is up to us to do our best to change our future; to do it right and make our past a learning experience for all, let’s abandon these firearms and focus on living a life," he said.

Moreover, Lieutenant Colonel Juvegleen Escandor, Commanding Officer of the 5th Mechanized Infantry Battalion, lauded the 53rd Mechanized Infantry Company for their exemplary effort.

"The successful turnout of this initiative stands as a testament to the resilience and dedication of our communities. Together, we have taken a crucial step toward securing our cities’ future. Let this success inspire us to further strengthen our ties and commitment to peaceful coexistence," he said. (5th Mechanized Infantry Battalion/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)