Manila, June 29 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday directed authorities to further intensify operations against private armed groups (PAGs) and loose firearms in Sulu as part of the administration's continuing efforts to consolidate peace and sustain development gains in the province.

During his visit to the newly established Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB) 9B headquarters in Maimbung town, Marcos led the ceremonial turnover of 195 high-powered loose firearms voluntarily surrendered by civilians from various municipalities in Sulu.

The President underscored the importance of sustaining intelligence operations and strengthening law enforcement capabilities to preserve security gains achieved in the province following ...