AFTER more than five decades of armed conflict, violence, and instability, the Municipality of Indanan has reached a defining moment in its history, sending a powerful and unmistakable message that peace has taken root.
In a historic milestone, Indanan officially declared itself on Thursday, August 6, 2026, a Gun-Responsible, Rido-Free, and Peace-Centered Community while affirming its State of Stable Internal Peace and Security (SSIPS). Reinforcing this commitment, residents voluntarily surrendered 49 high-powered firearms, symbolizing the community’s collective decision to reject violence and embrace a future founded on unity, security, and sustainable development.
These achievements were made possible through the sustained collaboration of the Local Government Unit of Indanan under Mayor Albakil Jikiri, the 1103rd Infantry “Kalis” Brigade, 11th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, through the 100th Infantry “Kalasag” Battalion commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Samuel Bayongasan, the Philippine National Police, partner government agencies, traditional and religious leaders, peace stakeholders, and the people of Indanan.
The declaration and voluntary surrender of firearms form part of the broader peace and development campaign of the 11th Infantry Division, under the leadership of Majaor General Leonardo Peña, in partnership with the Provincial Government of Sulu headed by Governor Abdusakur “Toto” Tan II, aimed at transforming hard-earned peace gains into inclusive development and long-term stability throughout the province.
Peña described the milestone as a testament to the power of communities choosing peace over conflict. “The declaration of Indanan as a Gun-Responsible, Rido-Free, and Peace-Centered Community, together with the voluntary surrender of 49 high-powered firearms, reflects the courage and determination of the people to chart a different future. Every firearm laid down represents a conscious decision to protect lives instead of endangering them. This milestone proves that lasting peace is achieved when communities themselves become active partners in safeguarding it through trust, cooperation, and shared responsibility,” Peña said.
Tan likewise hailed the people of Indanan for their unwavering support for the province’s peace and development agenda, emphasizing that genuine progress begins with peace. “This is a victory not only for Indanan but for the entire Province of Sulu. Every firearm surrendered represents a life protected, a conflict prevented, and another step toward a safer and more progressive Sulu. This milestone reflects the resilience of our people and our collective determination to leave behind the hardships of conflict and build communities where every family can live safely, pursue opportunities, and look to the future with hope. Together, we will continue sustaining the gains of peace for future generations,” Tan said.
For the 1103rd Infantry Brigade, the twin milestones stand as powerful evidence that enduring peace is built not through force alone but through sustained partnerships, mutual trust, and the active participation of communities. They underscore the Brigade’s continuing commitment to supporting local governments and stakeholders in creating safe, resilient, and peaceful communities across Sulu.
As Indanan begins this new chapter, it sends a resounding message across the province and the nation: decades of conflict do not define a community’s future. When people choose dialogue over violence, unity over division, and hope over fear, peace prevails, firearms are laid down, and development follows. (PR)
