CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga — The Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) accounted for 187 firearms within 24 hours through the intensified implementation of its Accounting and Disposition of Firearms with Expired Registration (ADFER) campaign, police said Thursday.

Of the total, 182 firearms were deposited for safekeeping while five were voluntarily surrendered to police authorities, according to PRO3.

The police regional office said the figure reflects its continuing coordination and information campaign aimed at encouraging firearm owners with expired registrations to comply with existing regulations.

PRO3 said the initiative is intended to help prevent firearms from being lost, stolen, illegally transferred, or potentially used in criminal activities.

The campaign also supports the Philippine National Police (PNP) Focused Agenda, particularly its continuing efforts to address loose and unaccounted firearms.

PRO3 said the initiative complements the Unified 911 Emergency Response System by strengthening preventive policing and promoting coordinated response to emergencies.

PRO3 Director Police Brig. Gen. Jess B. Mendez commended police personnel involved in the campaign and thanked firearm owners who cooperated with authorities.

“The accounting of 187 firearms within 24 hours shows what can be achieved through focused police work, proper coordination, and public cooperation. Every firearm that is properly accounted for lessens the potential risk to our communities,” Mendez said.

“Together with Unified 911, we are strengthening both prevention and response so our people can feel safer in their homes and communities,” he added.

PRO3 said it will continue its information and compliance campaign across Central Luzon and urged firearm owners with expired registrations to coordinate with the nearest police station for proper guidance and appropriate disposition.

The police regional office said the campaign forms part of its continuing efforts to strengthen public safety through responsible firearm regulation and community cooperation. (Jason de Asis)