TAYSAN, BATANGAS – In line with the nationwide election gun ban and the directive of the Chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), PGEN Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, to enhance crime prevention and law enforcement efforts, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) conducted a successful operation against loose firearms and criminal elements in Batangas.
On March 28, 2025, the CIDG Batangas Provincial Field Unit, in coordination with the CIDG Regional Field Unit 4A-Regional Special Operations Team and territorial police units, implemented a search warrant for violation of Republic Act No. 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act) at Golden Mountain Aggregates Corporation (GMA Corp.), a quarry located in Barangay San Marcelino, Taysan, Batangas. The operation led to the arrest of Chester, the quarry’s manager and a resident of the same barangay, as well as the confiscation of multiple loose firearms and ammunition.
According to CIDG Director PMGEN Nicolas D. Torre III, Chester had a history of criminal activity. In November 2024, he was arrested for attempted murder after allegedly firing multiple gunshots at a heavy equipment operator of GMA Corp. He was also reportedly involved in indiscriminate firings within the quarry, creating fear and endangering the community.
During the operation, authorities seized three loose firearms, including a caliber 5.56 rifle, a caliber .45 pistol, and a caliber .40 pistol. Additionally, assorted magazines and a large cache of live ammunition were confiscated.
Chester is now facing charges before the National Prosecution Service for violating RA 10591 and Batas Pambansa Blg. 881 (Omnibus Election Code) in relation to Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Resolution No. 10728, which prohibits the unlawful possession of firearms during the election gun ban period.
PMGEN Torre III assured the public of the CIDG’s unwavering commitment to eradicating loose firearms and combating criminal activities nationwide. “Rest assured that your CIDG is relentless in accounting for and seizing loose firearms, explosives, and ammunition. We are unforgiving towards criminals, crime groups, and private armed groups engaged in gun-running and all forms of criminality. The CIDG will capture those who disrupt peace and order and confiscate illegal firearms to ensure a safe and peaceful national and local election in May,” he stated. (Latigo Reportorial Team)