119 Loose Firearms Crushed in Zamboanga del Sur; 64 Students Granted Scholarships

PAGADIAN CITY — A total of 119 unlicensed firearms were destroyed on Monday, September 29, 2025, in a symbolic drive against the spread of illegal weapons in Zamboanga del Sur.

The weapons, turned over through the government’s Small Arms and Light Weapons (SAL-W) Program, were flattened by a road roller at the Provincial Government Complex, highlighting the state’s continuing campaign to reduce armed violence in communities.

The event, dubbed the Demilitarization and Scholarship Grant Ceremony, was led by the 53rd Infantry “Matapat” Battalion of the Philippine Army’s 1st Infantry Division, in partnership with the provincial government under Governor Divina Grace C. Yu and members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

Alongside the destruction of firearms, the provincial government awarded scholarship assistance to 64 children of former firearm holders, signaling a push to pair peace initiatives with education and livelihood opportunities.

OPAPRU Secretary Carlito G. Galvez Jr., guest of honor, underscored that investing in youth education is crucial to sustaining peace: “An investment in education is an investment in peace,” he said.

Also extending their support were Major General Yegor Rey Baroquillo Jr., Commander of the 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division, and Commodore Rejard V. Marfe of the Philippine Coast Guard Southwestern Mindanao.

Governor Yu, for her part, called on barangay leaders to work closely with law enforcement in stamping out illegal firearms manufacturing and possession, stressing that public safety requires collective responsibility.

The initiative forms part of a holistic peace and security framework addressing not only the disarmament of communities but also the provision of opportunities that strengthen families and secure long-term stability.

Source | Victory Zamboanga del Sur 

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