MINDANAO ZAMBOPEN JOURNAL

By PIO, WESMINCOM

       January 28,2022

 Barangay Chiefs Hand Over Loose Firearms to Military in Cotabato

 Chairpersons of the different barangays in Carmen, Cotabato handed over seven loose firearms to the military on January 27, 2022. According to Western Mindanao Command Chief, Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, Jr., the firearms were received by Col. Jovencio Gonzales, Commander of 602nd Infantry Brigade, and Lt. Col. Rommel Mundala, Commanding Officer of 90th Infantry Battalion at the Convention Hall of the abovementioned municipality.

 Col. Gonzales said that Barangay Chairpersons Jimmy Cabrillo of Kibudtungan, Percival Bacudo of Aroman, Reynaldo Camique of Tonganon, Acob Guiamilil of Palanggalan, Ronald Akmad of Kibenes, Robert Baguat of Ranzo, and Pepito Calibara of Tacupan handed over a total of five M1 Garand rifles and two US Carbine Cal. 30 rifles. 

 “The activity is part of the Balik Baril Program of our unit in partnership with the municipality of Carmen. This is to eradicate illegal firearms in our area of operation,” Lt. Col. Mundala said.

 Chairman Cabrillo said that this is their way of expressing their support for the government’s campaign against illegal firearms and to be a good example to their constituents.

 Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Commander of Joint Task Force Central, commended the 602nd Infantry Brigade and 90th Infantry Battalion for establishing good relationships with the local officials. 

 All surrendered firearms are currently deposited at H90IB for custody and proper disposition.

 “Their gestures are very much appreciated. May they inspire their constituents who are owners of illegal firearms to also yield their weapons to the military. It would be of great help especially during this election period when we double our efforts to clear the communities from undocumented firearms and sustain the peace in our area of operation,” Lt. Gen. Rosario, Jr. stated.