Manila, Feb. 25 -- The campaign against loose firearms in Maguindanao del Sur continues to gain ground, with more local officials and civilians turning over their unlicensed guns to military authorities, officials said Tuesday.

Candidates from Mamasapano, Maguindanao del Sur, participating in Monday's military-led political candidates' forum at the Army's 33rd Infantry Battalion (33IB) headquarters in Rajah Buayan town, surrendered 13 unlicensed firearms.

Lt. Col. Udgie Villan, 33IB commander, said Mamasapano Mayor Akmad Ampatuan Jr. had convinced his constituents and other candidates to voluntarily surrender their unlicensed guns to help make the coming election peaceful.

Villan presented the rifles to Col. Edgar Catu, commander of th...