NANGKA, BALO-I, Lanao del Norte — Poona-Piagapo officials turned over nine loose firearms to the Philippine Army on Oct. 26, an initial step in efforts to improve security as the municipality pursues road improvements and better public services.
The firearms were handed over at the headquarters of the Army’s 44th Infantry Battalion in Nangka, Balo-i. They included four M1 Garand rifles, three M1 carbines, one M2 carbine and one M203 grenade launcher.
Mayor Ashley “Kaulit” Rakiin and Lt. Col. Jeremy Damonsong, the battalion commander, said cooperation between the municipal government and security forces was important to maintaining peace in the municipality.
Damonsong said development projects would have limited impact if communities remained vulnerable to instability. He cited the local government’s support as a factor in encouraging community participation in peace and security efforts.
Officials described the turnover as an initial step in addressing loose firearms in the municipality. A broader campaign encouraging residents to surrender unregistered or unauthorized firearms had yet to be fully rolled out.
Roads, services also on agenda
Rakiin said her administration was pursuing infrastructure improvements and basic services alongside security efforts, with the goal of bringing visible improvements to communities.
She cited road graveling projects intended to make travel easier for residents and vehicles.
The municipality initially lacked equipment for the work, prompting her to seek assistance and borrow machinery.
The mayor also pointed to efforts to improve municipal operations and ensure government personnel were present and performing their duties to serve residents.
Damonsong expressed hope that the partnership between the Army and the municipal government would continue to support peace and development initiatives.
The firearms turnover marks an early step in the municipality’s security efforts, while the planned expansion of the surrender campaign remains a key measure to watch.
