MANILA, Philippines — Ninety-one firearms registered to fugitive Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa remain unaccounted for, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said Monday.
In a press briefing, PNP Civil Security Group director Maj. Gen. Aden Lagradante said 117 firearms were being accounted for, but only 26 had so far been turned over.
He said the PNP continues to coordinate with Dela Rosa’s legal officer regarding the remaining firearms.
Lagradante said Dela Rosa’s license has been revoked.
Under existing rules, the firearms should be surrendered, although the latest information from the senator’s camp was that they were still in the process of accounting for the weapons. They are also seeking reconsideration.
Lagradante said Dela Rosa’s camp has sought reconsideration.
He said the PNP is dealing with about 1.1 million expired firearms and around 300,000 revoked licenses, as part of its continuing campaign to account for firearms nationwide.
Meanwhile, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the campaign against loose firearms is a priority.
He said the police are pursuing the confiscation, seizure, turnover and surrender of firearms while reminding licensed gun owners to properly secure their weapons.
“We need to weed out our community of loose firearms,” Nartatez said.
