A total of 119 loose firearms were destroyed in Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur while scholarship grants were awarded to more than 60 children of those who surrendered their guns.

The firearms were surrendered through the government’s Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) program, which is part of the intensified campaign to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms.

The provincial government also awarded scholarship grants to 64 children of individuals who turned in their loose firearms.

The activity was attended by Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., officials of the provincial government, and military officials.

During the event, Galvez highlighted the importance of education in sustaining peace, while local leaders called for stronger cooperation among barangays, police, and the military to ensure peace and order in the province.

OPAPRU  also turned over fund assistance for a bridge construction project in Barangay Pisompongan, Midsalip, Zamboanga del Sur.