BY KEVIN GALANG
CAMP OLIVAS, City of San Fernando, Pampanga — A total of 65 assorted firearms on Monday were voluntarily surrendered to authorities in Balanga City, Bataan.
The guns were previously owned by a private security agency.
Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) director Brig. Gen. Jess Mendez said the move underscored the growing cooperation between law enforcement and the community.
The turnover was arranged by the agency’s secretary, along with a family member of the late owner, who sought police’ help for the proper handling and disposition of the firearms, most of which had expired registrations.
The Bataan Police Provincial Office, in coordination with the Provincial Intelligence Unit and the Balanga City Police, conducted verification and inventory at a residence in Bgy. Munting Batangas.
Among the surrendered firearms were 31 units of 12-gauge shotguns, two units of caliber 5.56 rifles, two units of cal. .30 carbines, one unit of cal. .45 submachine gun, 25 units of 9mm pistols, and four units of cal..38 revolvers.
Also turned over were about 2,000 rounds of ammunition and several firearm magazines.
All items were documented and placed under secure custody at the Balanga City police.
Officials said the firearms will undergo further verification with the Firearms and Explosives Office, particularly those with documentation issues, including units bearing identical serial numbers.
Mendez commended the voluntary surrender, noting that it reflects both responsibility and public trust in the police.
“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,” the official said.
He added that the initiative supports the Philippine National Police’s focused agenda on enhanced operations, integrity monitoring, and public safety.
“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,” Mendez further said.

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