The Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6) has reported a significant achievement in its campaign against illegal weapons, with a total of 199 firearms and 26 explosives recovered, surrendered, or confiscated during operations conducted from April 1 to 15, 2026. This effort is part of intensified actions targeting loose firearms across the region, aimed at enhancing public safety and reducing violence.
Public Cooperation Drives Success
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, director of PRO 6, emphasized that the rising number of surrendered firearms reflects growing public cooperation. "This is an important step to prevent violence and ensure safer communities, especially here in Western Visayas," he stated. Ligan further urged all gun owners, particularly those without licenses, to process their firearms promptly to avoid future legal issues or inconveniences.
Operational Details and Arrests
Records from PRO 6 indicate that 15 operations were carried out during the two-week period, resulting in the arrest of 15 individuals. The breakdown of the recovered firearms includes:
- 154 firearms surrendered or turned over voluntarily
- 29 firearms deposited for safekeeping
- 16 firearms confiscated through direct police operations
Top-Performing Police Units
The Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) led the accomplishments with 67 firearms and 14 explosives recovered. Following closely were the Capiz Police Provincial Office (CPPO) with 35 firearms and one explosive, and the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) with 24 firearms and one explosive. Other police units across Western Visayas also contributed to the campaign, demonstrating increased compliance with firearm regulations.
Community Engagement and Future Efforts
Ligan highlighted that the surge in voluntary surrenders underscores the effectiveness of intensified community engagement and sustained information campaigns by PRO 6. He reiterated that operations against loose firearms will continue as a proactive measure to maintain peace and order. Authorities have reminded gun owners to secure proper licenses to avoid legal consequences, and PRO 6 has assured the public that law enforcement efforts will remain relentless. The focus is on reducing the proliferation of loose firearms and preventing violence through sustained operations and strengthened public cooperation.
