Manila, March 28 -- Residents of Pandag town in Maguindanao del Sur voluntarily surrendered nine high-powered weapons to military authorities Thursday, marking the latest success in the government's campaign against loose firearms in Central Mindanao.

The cache, including a .50-caliber Barrett-style sniper rifle, four 12-gauge shotguns, and an M79 grenade launcher, was presented to local officials by Lt. Col. Felmax Lodriguito of the 2nd Mechanized Battalion.

Pandag Mayor Mohajeran Balayman witnessed the turnover alongside Col. Ronel Manalo of the 1st Mechanized Brigade.

Maj. Gen. Donald Gumiran, commander of the 6th Infantry Division, praised the surrender as critical for community safety.

"Each weapon turned in reduces potential vio...