The Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) recovered an unlicensed grenade launcher and high-explosive ammunition during an operation under the government’s “Kontra Boga” campaign in Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur.
Authorities said the surrender was made in line with the Simultaneous Anti-Criminality Law Enforcement Operation (SACLEO) conducted on May 18.
The police said a resident of Sultan Naga Dimaporo, Lanao del Norte personally went to the office of the Philippine Highway Patrol Team (PHPT)-Zamboanga del Sur at Camp Abelon in Barangay Lumbia, Pagadian City at around 4 pm to voluntarily surrender one unlicensed M203 grenade launcher along with four 40mm high-explosive cartridges.
The surrendered weapon and ammunition were formally received by authorities and later turned over to the Provincial Explosives and Canine Unit in Zamboanga del Sur for proper documentation and disposition.
PNP-HPG Director Police Brig. Gen. Rommel Batangan said the recovery highlights the importance of public cooperation in efforts to curb the spread of loose firearms and other deadly weapons.
“The PNP-HPG continues to strengthen its campaign against loose firearms through dialogue, community engagement, and intensified law enforcement operations to help ensure public safety and maintain peace and order,” Batangan said.
The HPG also urged the public to continue supporting government initiatives by voluntarily surrendering unlicensed firearms and immediately reporting illegal weapons to authorities.