Firearms seized from suspects in a double murder case in Pampanga. (File photo from the Facebook page of Regional Office 3)
MANILA, Philippines — Two members of the Bangsamoro Parliament pushed for a resolution in the lawmaking chamber to endorse the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) Management Program to promote peace in the region.
SALW is a roadmap by the United Nations Development Program created in collaboration with the Joint Normalization Committee between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
In a statement on Wednesday, Member of Parliament (MP) Amir Mawallil justified the resolution he authored with MP Rasol Mitmug Jr.: “The misuse and uncontrolled spread of small arms and light weapons endanger not just public safety but also our development goals.”
“This program, through voluntary surrender and regulation of firearms, is a proactive step toward fostering a safer environment for all Bangsamoro communities,” Mawallil added.
In October 2023, the Bangsamoro government and peace advisers launched the Assistance for Security, Peace, Integration and Recovery for Advancing Human Security SALW Program to reduce firearm-related violence and bolster socio-economic growth.
The proposed resolution calls for a SALW program to regulate firearms through voluntary surrenders, registration, and stenciling.
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It also provides for “community-centered” socio-economic support such as farm machinery, post-harvest facilities, water systems, cooperatives, solar-powered street lights, basic health services, and “deradicalization programs.”
Principal authors Mawallil and Mitmug filed the resolution last November 12.
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In his statement, Mawalli said, “Addressing the root causes of armed violence goes beyond just confiscating firearms.”
“By providing support such as livelihood programs and infrastructure, we are creating opportunities for individuals to rebuild their lives and communities to thrive without fear. This is why we need comprehensive collaboration among all stakeholders,” he added.