Photo courtesy of PNP/Facebook
The Philippine National Police (PNP) in Region 1 recovered a total of 207 firearms in February as authorities stepped up operations against illegal and unregistered weapons.
Police said the firearms were recovered through a series of enforcement activities and voluntary surrender initiatives carried out across the Ilocos Region.
Throughout the month, law enforcers conducted 33 operations targeting individuals suspected of possessing illegal firearms. These operations led to the arrest of 38 people.
During the operations, police seized 33 firearms and recovered another 10 weapons linked to separate incidents.
Authorities said community cooperation also contributed significantly to the campaign. Residents voluntarily turned over 142 firearms to the police.
Another 22 firearms were also deposited at police stations for safekeeping, reflecting growing public cooperation with law enforcement efforts.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez said the development showed the police force’s determination to curb the spread of illegal weapons and prevent violence in communities.
“Ang tagumpay na ito ay nagpapakita na determinado tayo sa paglaban sa ilegal na armas. Bawat baril na maaalis sa kalye, mas ligtas ang ating mga komunidad. Hindi tayo titigil—patuloy nating palalakasin ang operasyon para protektahan ang mamamayan,” he said.