BUTUAN CITY, Philippines — Police Regional Office (PRO) 13 has reported major progress in its crackdown against loose firearms, confiscating, recovering, and securing a total of 62 guns across Caraga Region from August 1 to 21, 2025.
According to the Regional Operations Division 13, at least 14 firearms were seized during search warrants, checkpoint operations, police responses, and arrests. Meanwhile, 43 firearms were voluntarily surrendered to authorities, while five were deposited for safekeeping as owners await renewal of their firearm registration or License to Own and Possess Firearm (LTOPF).
Police Brigadier General Marcial Mariano P. Magistrado IV, Regional Director of PRO 13, lauded his personnel for their dedication in addressing the proliferation of unregistered and illegally possessed firearms.
“Without their efforts, these weapons could have been used to commit crimes,” Magistrado said.
Loose firearms, as defined under Republic Act No. 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, include unregistered guns, obliterated or altered firearms, stolen or lost weapons, illegally manufactured firearms, registered firearms held by unauthorized individuals, and firearms with revoked licenses.
Authorities said the intensified operations form part of ongoing efforts to reduce criminality and ensure community safety in the region.