MATALAM, Cotabato — A 42-year-old man was arrested during a police search warrant operation in Barangay New Bugasong, Matalam, Cotabato, after he allegedly posted a photo of himself holding a firearm on social media, police said.
The operation was carried out at the suspect’s residence in Purok 2, F. Valdevieso, Barangay New Bugasong, on October 20, 2026, by personnel of the Matalam Municipal Police Station (MPS), in coordination with the Cotabato Police Provincial Office Provincial Intelligence Unit, the 1st and 2nd Cotabato Provincial Mobile Force Companies, and the Regional Intelligence Division 12 Tracker Team Echo.
Police identified the arrested man by the aliases “Jayde” and “Dodo.” He was described as a married, unemployed resident of the barangay.
According to initial information relayed by Matalam police chief Plt. Col. Marvin Hugos, the suspect allegedly drew police attention after posting a photograph of himself holding a gun on social media. Authorities subsequently pursued legal action that led to the issuance of a search warrant in connection with a suspected violation of Republic Act No. 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
The warrant, numbered 26-46, was issued on October 14, 2026, by the executive judge of the Regional Trial Court of the 12th Judicial Region in Kabacan, Cotabato.
During the search, authorities recovered a black holster containing a .38-caliber revolver loaded with two live rounds of ammunition, according to the police report.
The recovered items were marked and inventoried at the scene in the presence of the respondent, a barangay official, and a media representative, as part of the documentation of the operation.
Republic Act No. 10591 regulates the ownership, possession, manufacture, and handling of firearms and ammunition in the Philippines. Authorities have not provided further details on the suspect’s firearm license status or whether additional charges will be filed.
Police Regional Office 12 Regional Director Brig. Gen. Alan B. Manibog reiterated the importance of enforcing firearms regulations while observing legal procedures.
“Patuloy nating ipatutupad ang batas at paiigtingin ang ating mga operasyon upang mapanatili ang kaligtasan ng ating mga komunidad. Sisiguraduhin nating ang bawat hakbang ay naaayon sa tamang proseso,” Manibog said.
The Matalam police said operations against loose firearms would continue as part of efforts to protect public safety and maintain peace and order in the community.
The arrest followed a judicially authorized search. The allegations against the respondent remain subject to the appropriate legal proceedings.