CAMP OLIVAS – PBGen Jose S. Hidalgo Jr. of the PNP Region 3 said the 4-month campaign against illegal guns in Central Luzon under the program “Oplan Katok” yielded nearly 500 loose firearms in the past four months.
Hidalgo said the seized firearms of various types and calibers were seized from various checkpoint operations, anti-drug operations and implementation of search warrants among others, in the four corners of the region from February 22 to July 2, 2023.
Some 233 individuals were also arrested and are now facing charges for violation of Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
Hidalgo said a total of 1033 assorted firearms were turned over to the police for safekeeping.
“We are doing this as part of the Philippine National Police (PNP) efforts to intensify the campaign against loose firearms as well as to prepare for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections this October.
e vow to curtail the proliferation of loose firearms in Central Luzon. I also urged gun holders to regularly update and renew their licenses,” said Hidalgo.