ILIGAN CITY, Philippines — More than 400 loose firearms were recently recovered in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, according to the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom).
At least 88 guns were recovered in Buldon, Parang, Matanog and Barira towns in Maguindanao and 147 in Balabagan, Kapatagan, Malabang,Picong and Marogong in Lanao del Sur.
In Zamboanga City, Mayor Maria Isabel Climaco-Salazar turned over 188 firearms surrendered by officials of Barangays Arena Blanco, Tigtabon, Mercedes, Cabaluay and Sangali. The Zamboanga police also recovered 128 guns last week.
Westmincom chief Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr. said the campaign against loose firearms is expected to prevent clan wars or rido and ensure that the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections in May would be peaceful.