PNP destroys 178 firearms of former rebels in Caraga
By Nora L. Molde
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, General Benjamin C. Acorda Jr. witnessed the destruction of the said firearms saying, “This activity reflected the success of the government in the intensive fight against terrorism.”
“As we continue to gain ground, posing their nearest downfall, let us continue to work hand in hand to solve insurgency in the country,” Gen. Acorda added.
According to PNP Caraga regional director, PBGen. Kirby John B. Kraft, the demilitarization of firearms ensured that no one shall use the weapons for crimes and illegal activities or even to cause harm and wreak havoc to Caraganons.
“The demilitarized weapons include 117 long firearms, 36 short firearms, 13 crew-served weapons, and 12 sub-machine guns. Of the 178 firearms, 100 came from the surrenderers in Agusan del Sur; 49 from Surigao del Norte; and 29 from the province of Agusan del Norte,” PBGen. Kraft disclosed.
Other officials from the regional line agencies witnessed the significant event, namely, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) assistant regional director, Engr. Donald A. Seronay; Bonifacio R. Pulgo, deputy regional director of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA); local chief executives from Agusan del Norte and Bayugan City; high-ranking officers from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG); and PRO-13 personnel including its officers of the ladies’ club.
It can be recalled that Caraga region took the lead in destroying some 220 surrendered firearms in 2021. (NCLM/PIA-Caraga)