Quezon City, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) conducted a Ceremonial Turnover and Press Briefing this morning at the Multi-Purpose Center in Camp Rafael T. Crame to mark the voluntary surrender of loose firearms by a private citizen from Davao City, reinforcing the PNP’s nationwide campaign for responsible firearm ownership.
Leading the event was Acting Chief PNP, PLTGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., who stressed the importance of citizen cooperation in efforts to reduce the number of unregistered or improperly documented firearms in the country.
During the ceremony, Mr. Jesus P. Martinez of San Pedro Village, Buhangin, Davao City personally surrendered:
25 high-powered firearms
70 rounds of ammunition
15 explosives
4 magazines
The firearms, although previously licensed, had become classified as loose due to expired permits. PNP officials noted that Mr. Martinez’s voluntary handover reflects his trust in the Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group (IMEG) and his strong support for the PNP’s initiatives toward lawful firearm regulation.
In the press briefing, the PNP reiterated that community involvement is vital in sustaining peace and order, emphasizing that compliance with firearm licensing requirements helps prevent criminal activities and enhances public safety.
The turnover was witnessed by key PNP officials, including:
PLTGEN Edgar Alan O. Okubo, Deputy Chief PNP for Operations
PMGEN Wilson Joseph F. Lopez Jr., Director for Intelligence
PBGEN Bonard Briton, Director, IMEG
PBGEN Ronald V. Gayo, Chief, Firearms and Explosives Office
Also present were members of the IMEG Advisory Group — Marcelo DC Torres, Alfred P. Dalizon, Armando C. Arcenal, and Mr. Jess Martinez — who reaffirmed their support for the organization’s mission to enforce lawful firearm management and uphold public safety.
The PNP encouraged other firearm holders with expired licenses or undocumented weapons to coordinate with authorities and participate in voluntary surrender programs as part of broader initiatives to maintain peace and security in communities across the country.
