21/05/2026
WESTMINCOM, Stakeholders Sustain Peace and Development Gains Across Western Mindanao
The sustained peace and development initiatives across the Areas of Responsibility of the Western Mindanao Command continue to gain momentum as government agencies, local government units, security forces, and local communities further strengthen their collaboration in promoting security, public safety, conflict resolution, and inclusive development throughout Mindanao.
Both major peace-building activities conducted on 19 May 2026 in Lanao del Sur and Zamboanga del Sur were attended by Brigadier General Bayani Curaming, Deputy Commander for Internal Defense Operations of the Western Mindanao Command, representing Lt. Gen. Donald M. Gumiran, underscoring WESTMINCOM’s steadfast support for peacebuilding and community-based security initiatives across Western Mindanao.
In Taraka, Lanao del Sur, the Joint Ceremonial Turnover of loose fi****ms under the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) Management Program was successfully conducted at the Municipal Gymnasium through the collective efforts of participating local government units, local communities, traditional and religious leaders, and the 5th Infantry (DUTY BOUND) Battalion under the operational control of the 103rd Infantry (HARIBON) Brigade.
The activity was graced by Secretary Mel Senen S. Sarmiento, the newly installed Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, who served as Guest of Honor and Speaker, alongside local officials and sectoral stakeholders from the municipalities of Mulondo, Taraka, Lumba-Bayabao, and Tamparan.
A total of 108 loose fi****ms of various calibers and types—including sniper rifles, assault rifles, rocket-propelled gr***de launchers, machine guns, carbines, shotguns, and pistols—were voluntarily turned over during the ceremony. The initiative forms part of the continuing efforts to reduce the proliferation of unregistered fi****ms, prevent the escalation of rido and other community-based conflicts, and reinforce public safety and stability across Lanao del Sur.
Brigadier General Billy O. Dela Rosa, Commander of the 103rd Infantry (HARIBON) Brigade, emphasized that reducing the number of loose fi****ms significantly contributes to the prevention of violence and creates greater opportunities for peaceful conflict resolution within communities. He further stressed that peace can only flourish when communities, local leaders, and security forces work together with trust, sincerity, and a shared commitment to the welfare of future generations.
On the same day, the Province of Zamboanga del Sur commemorated its 5th Insurgency-Free Anniversary alongside the implementation of the SALW Management Program at Pavilion Hall, Brgy. Dao, Pagadian City. The celebration served as a strong affirmation of the province’s hard-earned gains in peace, security, and development through unity and sustained collaboration among stakeholders.
The event was spearheaded by Governor Divina Grace Yu together with Major General Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., Commander of Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN and the 1st Infantry Division, and was likewise graced by Secretary Mel Senen S. Sarmiento. The activity highlighted the province’s continuing commitment to sustaining peace, strengthening security mechanisms, and advancing inclusive development for all Zambosurians.
Anchored on strong collaboration, mutual trust, and active community participation, WESTMINCOM and its partners remain steadfast in supporting initiatives that foster stability, strengthen governance, address the root causes of conflict, and build safer, more resilient, and development-oriented communities for present and future generations.
Lt. Gen. Donald M. Gumiran, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command, called on all stakeholders, local leaders, and communities across Western Mindanao to continue protecting and sustaining the gains of peace through unity, vigilance, and collective action.
“Peace is a shared responsibility that requires the sincere participation of every sector of society. The successes we are witnessing today in Lanao del Sur and Zamboanga del Sur are clear evidence that when government forces, local government units, religious leaders, traditional leaders, and communities work together, we can overcome violence, prevent conflict, and build stronger, more resilient communities. I encourage everyone to continue supporting lawful initiatives, reject violence and extremism in all forms, and remain united in advancing peace, security, and development across Western Mindanao for the benefit of present and future generations,” Lt. Gen. Gumiran said.
