Western Visayas Police Seize Hundreds of Weapons in Intensive Monthlong Campaign
In a significant law enforcement achievement, the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6) has successfully recovered 377 assorted firearms and 81 explosives while arresting 33 individuals during a focused campaign against loose firearms conducted throughout February 2026. The operation, which ran from February 1 to 28, received strong support from communities across the region, highlighting a collaborative effort to enhance public safety.
Community Cooperation Drives Voluntary Surrenders
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, director of PRO 6, emphasized that the accomplishment was largely made possible through public cooperation. This partnership resulted in the voluntary surrender of a substantial number of firearms and explosives, demonstrating a shared commitment to reducing threats from illegal weapons.
"I commend the steadfast efforts of our personnel in recovering loose firearms throughout the month of February. This accomplishment is not only an operational success but also reflects our firm commitment to protecting our communities from the threats posed by illegal and unlicensed firearms," Ligan stated.
He further urged the public to continue supporting authorities by surrendering unlicensed firearms and ensuring proper renewal of firearm licenses. "I encourage the public to voluntarily surrender unlicensed firearms or ensure that their firearm licenses are properly renewed and updated. This is for your safety and the security of our communities," he added, underscoring the ongoing need for vigilance.
Breakdown of Recoveries and Regional Performance
Police records provide a detailed breakdown of the recoveries. Of the 377 firearms recovered across Western Visayas, 296 firearms and 80 explosives were voluntarily surrendered by civilians, a direct result of intensified police efforts to reduce the presence of loose firearms in communities.
Additionally, 43 firearms were deposited for safekeeping by owners currently processing license renewals, while 38 firearms and one explosive were confiscated during police operations conducted by various units across the region.
The campaign is part of the intensified implementation of Tokhang Kontra Armas Luthang (TKAL), the flagship initiative of PRO 6 aimed at addressing the proliferation of loose firearms and illegal weapons in Western Visayas.
Among provincial police offices, the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (Ippo), led by Police Colonel Bayani Razalan, recorded the highest number of recoveries with 159 firearms and 48 explosives. The Capiz Police Provincial Office (CPPO) followed with 51 firearms and three explosives, while the Antique Police Provincial Office (Antppo), under Police Colonel Ryan Devaras, recovered 48 firearms and nine explosives.
Sustained Efforts for Long-Term Safety
Authorities attributed the success of the campaign to the continued implementation of the TKAL program, sustained police operations, and active community participation. Ligan highlighted that removing loose firearms from circulation plays a critical role in preventing crimes and ensuring resident safety in Western Visayas.
"Every firearm recovered reduces the risk of it being used in criminal activities," he noted, emphasizing the importance of cooperation between law enforcement and the public.
The campaign will persist in coordination with PRO 6 operating units and local police offices as part of sustained efforts to maintain peace and order. Police officials reiterated that community participation remains vital in the fight against illegal firearms and explosives.
Through the dedication of police personnel and ongoing community support, PRO 6 remains committed to strengthening its campaign against loose firearms and ensuring the safety of residents across Western Visayas. The regional police leadership affirmed that the campaign will be sustained as part of ongoing measures to reduce criminality and enhance public safety throughout the region.
