The Philippine National Police (PNP) intensified its nationwide campaign against loose firearms in June 2026, resulting in the arrest of 1,079 individuals and the removal of 3,779 firearms from communities through confiscation, surrender, and enforcement operations conducted from June 1 to 30. During the same period, another 681 firearms were voluntarily deposited with the PNP for safekeeping.
A recent example of this community-based approach was recorded by Police Regional Office 6 (PRO 6), led by its Acting Regional Director, Police Brigadier General Randulf T. Tuaño, where 64 loose firearms were voluntarily surrendered in a single day on July 4, 2026. This accomplishment was made possible through sustained coordination among police units, barangay officials, local government units (LGUs), and community stakeholders, who encouraged firearm owners to comply with existing laws.
Aside from the 64 firearms voluntarily surrendered, PRO 6 also conducted 72 police operations that resulted in the arrest of one individual for a firearms-related violation, the confiscation of one firearm, the recovery of 10 explosive devices, the voluntary deposit of four firearms for safekeeping, and the conduct of three house visitations aimed at encouraging the lawful surrender of firearms.
Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., PNP Chief, said the latest accomplishments demonstrate that effective police work becomes more meaningful when communities actively participate in promoting peace and order.
“Every loose firearm removed from our communities is a step toward preventing violence and protecting innocent lives. Hindi lang ito tungkol sa pagpapatupad ng batas. Mas mahalaga na nakikita nating dumarami ang mga mamamayang kusang nakikipagtulungan para mapanatiling ligtas ang kanilang mga komunidad,” he said.
He emphasized that PNP will continue to strengthen its partnerships with LGUs, barangays, and the public while sustaining law enforcement operations against unauthorized firearms.
“Patuloy nating hinihikayat ang mga may hawak ng hindi awtorisadong baril na makipag-ugnayan sa kanilang pinakamalapit na himpilan ng pulisya. Ang layunin natin ay hindi lamang makumpiska ang mga baril kundi maiwasan din ang mga krimeng maaaring magawa gamit ang mga ito. Sa pagtutulungan ng pulisya at mamamayan, mas magiging ligtas ang ating mga komunidad,” he concluded.
