CAMP OLIVAS, City of San Fernando, Pampanga — Assorted firearms previously owned by a private security agency were voluntarily turned over to authorities in Balanga City, Bataan, on Monday (May 4), reflecting increasing cooperation between the police and the community.
The turnover was facilitated by the security agency’s secretary, together with a family member of the late owner, who sought police assistance for the proper disposition of the firearms, most of which had expired registrations.
Acting on the request, the Bataan Police Provincial Office, in coordination with the Provincial Intelligence Unit and Balanga City Police Station, proceeded to the residence in Barangay Munting Batangas to conduct verification and inventory.
A total of 65 assorted firearms were accounted for, including 31 units of 12-gauge shotguns, 2 units of caliber 5.56 rifles, 2 units of caliber .30 carbines, 1 unit of caliber .45 sub-machine gun, 25 units of 9mm pistols, and 4 units of caliber .38 revolvers. Also turned over were approximately 2,000 rounds of ammunition and firearm magazines.
All items were properly documented and placed in secure custody at Balanga City Police Station pending verification with the Firearms and Explosives Office, as some units require further validation due to documentation concerns, including instances where firearms bear identical serial numbers.
PRO3 Director P/BGen. Jess B Mendez acknowledged the initiative, emphasizing that such actions reflect both responsibility and trust.
“Malaking bagay ang ganitong kusang-loob na pakikipag-ugnayan. Ipinapakita nito ang tiwala ng komunidad sa kapulisan at ang kanilang malasakit sa kaligtasan ng lahat,” he said.
He noted that the development supports the PNP Focused Agenda, particularly on enhanced police operations, integrity monitoring, and public safety initiatives.
“Hindi kakayanin ng pulis na mag-isa. Ang tunay na lakas ng ating kampanya ay nagmumula sa matibay na ugnayan ng pulisya at komunidad. Kapag may tiwala at kooperasyon, mas nagiging epektibo ang pagpapatupad ng batas,” he added.
The firearms will remain under police custody while undergoing further verification and proper disposition.
PRO3 continues to encourage firearm holders to ensure compliance with existing laws and to coordinate with authorities, reinforcing that strong police-community partnership remains key to safer and more secure communities. (UnliNes Online)
