ILOILO City – The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) has reported a surge in voluntary firearm surrenders and successful law enforcement operations that led to the recovery of 154 assorted firearms and 17 explosives across Western Visayas in October.
Records showed that 107 firearms and 16 explosives were voluntarily surrendered by residents, while 39 firearms and one explosive were seized through intensified police operations. Eight firearms were also deposited for safekeeping.
Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) posted the highest number of recoveries with 57 firearms and 10 explosives, followed by Aklan with 27 firearms and three explosives, and Antique with 21 firearms and three explosives.
PRO-6 director Brigadier General Josefino Ligan credited the success to the regional campaign “Tokhang Kontra Armas Luthang” (TKAL), which continues to gain public support.
“I commend the dedication of our personnel for their successful efforts in recovering these loose firearms. This achievement goes beyond operational success; it is an affirmation of our commitment in ensuring the safety of our communities from the dangers associated with unlicensed weapons,” said Ligan.
He underscored that every firearm removed from circulation strengthens peace and security in the region.
“Every firearm that is removed from the streets brings the PRO-6 a step closer to a safer and more peaceful Western Visayas,” he said.
Ligan also appealed for continued cooperation from the public, emphasizing that community partnership remains crucial in disarmament efforts.
“Let us remain steadfast in our campaign against loose firearms and continue to work closely with the community to keep these instruments of violence from threatening lives,” he added.
The regional director stressed that the results highlight PRO-6’s proactive stance in addressing the proliferation of unlicensed firearms, which are often linked to crimes and acts of violence.
“Each successful operation stands as a testament to our collective pursuit of a safer and more secure region,” he said./PN
