The 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division / Joint Task Force Central, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through the Assistance for Security, Peace, Integration and Recovery for Advancing Human Security in the Bangsamoro (ASPIRE) Project, conducted the ceremonial destruction of surrendered Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALWs) at Camp Siongco in Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte on June 19, 2026.
The activity marked the destruction of selected firearms from a total of 685 small arms and light weapons voluntarily surrendered from various communities in Maguindanao del Norte. It forms part of the SALW Management Program under the UNDP-led ASPIRE Project, which seeks to prevent the proliferation of loose firearms, reduce armed violence, and advance long-term peace and security in the Bangsamoro region.
The ASPIRE Project promotes a community-centered approach to firearms management by encouraging the voluntary turnover of weapons, regardless of affiliation, while providing support to conflict-affected communities. It also reinforces gains from the Bangsamoro peace process by addressing the persistent risks posed by loose firearms linked to clan feuds, political rivalries, land disputes, and resource conflicts.
The ceremony was led by Maj. Gen. Jose Vladimir R. Cagara, Commander of the 6th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Central, and attended by local government officials, security forces, peacebuilding institutions, and development partners, including representatives from OPAPRU, UNDP-ASPIRE, and PRO BARMM.
In his message, Cagara stressed that the destruction of surrendered firearms represents a collective and sustained commitment to peace and stability in the region.
“The ceremonial destruction of these firearms is more than the dismantling of weapons; it is a powerful affirmation of our people’s commitment to peace,” he said. “Every firearm turned in and destroyed represents a life potentially saved, a conflict prevented, and a community given a greater opportunity to prosper.”
He added that the initiative supports ongoing efforts to dismantle private armed groups, disarm individuals involved in illegal possession of firearms, and strengthen human security across the Bangsamoro region.
Cagara also called on remaining holders of loose firearms to voluntarily surrender their weapons and support peacebuilding efforts.
“We call on those who still possess loose firearms to work with us in building a safer and more peaceful Bangsamoro,” he said. “Together, let us make peace enduring, inclusive, and irreversible for future generations.”