The 1102nd Infantry (Ganarul) Brigade marked its 7th Founding Anniversary at Camp Akar in Luuk, Sulu, highlighting ongoing peace and security efforts in the province.
Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Commander Lt. Gen. Donald M. Gumiran served as guest of honor and speaker, joined by Sulu 2nd District Rep. Munir Arbison, Maj. Gen. Leonardo I. Peña of the 11th Infantry Division, local officials, and representatives from government agencies, security forces, and civil society groups.
In his address, Gumiran commended the brigade’s role in advancing peace and stability through sustained community engagement and security operations. He cited the implementation of the Gun-Free, Rido-Free, and Peace-Centered Communities campaign, which he said contributed to the settlement of clan feuds, recovery of loose firearms, and reduction of community violence.
He stressed that lasting peace in Mindanao cannot be achieved through military action alone, but through sustained cooperation with communities and stakeholders.
“The modern security environment has proven time and again that peace cannot be won by the barrel of a gun alone. It is won through the bridges we build, the hands we shake, and the communities we uplift,” Gumiran said.
He also noted that the declaration of several municipalities as Gun-Free, Rido-Free, and Peace-Centered Communities reflects a shift toward dialogue, reconciliation, and stronger rule of law in Sulu.
Among the brigade’s reported accomplishments are the declaration of eight municipalities under the program, settlement of 25 rido cases, recovery of 186 firearms, and a series of anti-drug and law enforcement operations.
Gumiran also commended Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino Delos Santos for his leadership in strengthening partnerships with local government units, traditional and religious leaders, and other stakeholders in support of peacebuilding efforts.
The event also featured the awarding of military personnel and partners, along with a ceremonial signing of a peace covenant reaffirming commitments to sustain gun control initiatives and prevent the resurgence of clan conflicts.
Lt. Gen. Gumiran urged troops and stakeholders to sustain the gains of the program, stressing that peace must be continuously protected and reinforced through collective action.
The celebration underscored the brigade’s seven-year role in supporting security operations and community-based peace initiatives across Sulu and the broader Western Mindanao region.