DIGOS CITY, Davao del Sur — A 31-year-old man was arrested by authorities after police operatives uncovered an unlicensed firearm and ammunition during the implementation of a search warrant operation in Barangay Matti, Digos City on Thursday afternoon, May 21.
The operation was carried out at around 1:34 p.m. in Purok 1, Kawayanan, Barangay Matti by personnel of the Digos City Police Station (CPS), led by Police Captain June Mar D. Pasobillo, intelligence officer, under the supervision of Police Lieutenant Colonel Norman L. Yparraguirre, chief of police.
Also participating in the operation were personnel from the Police Intelligence Unit (PIU) of the Davao del Sur Police Provincial Office (DSPPO), headed by Police Lieutenant Colonel Mark A. Janolino.
Authorities implemented Search Warrant No. 13-2026 issued by Executive Judge Maria Fe D. Orig-Maloloy-on of the Regional Trial Court, 11th Judicial Region, Branch 5, for alleged violation of Republic Act 10591, also known as the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
Police identified the arrested suspect only through his alias “Michael,” a Filipino male, single, unemployed, and a resident of the area where the operation was conducted.
Recovered from the suspect’s possession during the search were one camouflage holster, one Hooter caliber .45 pistol bearing Serial No. E1090528, one single-stack magazine for a caliber .45 pistol, and four live rounds of ammunition.
The operation was conducted in the presence of representatives from the Department of Justice (DOJ), members of the media, and barangay officials to ensure transparency and proper observance of legal procedures.
Following the operation, the suspect and the confiscated pieces of evidence were brought to the custody of the Digos City Police Station for proper documentation and disposition, while charges related to illegal possession of firearms and ammunition are being prepared against the suspect.
Republic Act 10591 regulates the ownership, possession, carrying, manufacture, and transfer of firearms and ammunition in the Philippines. Under the law, individuals found in possession of firearms without the necessary licenses or permits may face imprisonment and other penalties.
The Digos City Police Station reiterated its commitment to intensifying law enforcement operations against loose firearms and other criminal activities as part of ongoing efforts to maintain peace, order, and public safety in the community.