Ang Pahayagan

OLONGAPO CITY— Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) seized unregistered firearms, an explosive device, and illegal drugs valued at more than Php2.2 million during the implementation of a search warrant in Olongapo City on January 8, 2026, authorities reported.

The operation was conducted as part of PRO3’s sustained Enhanced Managing Police Operations (EMPO) and was led by the Regional Special Operations Group 3–Regional Intelligence Division (RSOG3-RID) under the command of Police Lieutenant Colonel Leo Madrid.

The operation was carried out with the overall supervision of Police Colonel Jay Baybayan, Chief of the Regional Intelligence Division, and with support from personnel of the Olongapo City Police Office–Police Station 1.

Recovered during the operation were two unregistered firearms—a .45 caliber pistol and a 9mm pistol—along with several magazines and assorted live ammunition of various calibers. Police operatives also seized one fragmentation hand grenade.

In addition, authorities confiscated approximately 305 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated standard drug price of Php2,079,440, and around 113 grams of suspected kush valued at Php169,500. Assorted drug paraphernalia and digital weighing scales were likewise recovered at the scene.

The suspect was arrested during the operation, and police said appropriate criminal charges are now being prepared. Further investigation is ongoing to determine whether the arrested individual has links to organized criminal groups or other illicit activities.

Police Brigadier General Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr., Regional Director of PRO3, said the successful operation underscores the police force’s continued commitment to public safety and crime prevention.

“Every firearm, explosive, or illegal drug that we remove from the streets is one less danger to our families and our communities,” Peñones said.

“These operations are about safety—making sure our people can live without fear.” He added that through intelligence-driven and court-guided operations such as this, PRO3 remains steadfast in its mission to protect communities across Central Luzon. (Jason de Asis)