Operatives from the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) arrested a member of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) following a buy-bust operation against loose firearms in Brgy. San Isidro, San Simon, Pampanga.
CIDG acting chief Maj. Gen. Robert Alexander Morico II said the suspect known as alias “Ray” is currently assigned at the PCG Coast Guard Station (CGS) in Manila. He is accused of illegally trading alleged loose firearms through online platforms.
“Ray” was caught while delivering a semi-automatic rifle being sold at P110,000. Also seized from his possession was a nine-millimeter pistol. He was charged before the National Prosecution Service for violating several laws against the illicit trade.
“I commend Col. Grant Gollod, the Regional Chief of CIDG Regional Field Unit 3, and CIDG Pampanga Provincial Field Unit led by its Provincial Chief- Lt. Col. Marlon Cudal for the confiscation of these loose firearms and arrest of the possessor,” Morico said.
“With this accomplishment, we removed from the circulation the instruments of killing, thereby, we significantly prevented crime. Thank you,” the CIDG chief added.
In a statement, PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan said he has ordered CGS Manila to fully cooperate with the investigation against one of its personnel, adding that their unit exercise “zero tolerance” for such behavior.
“The PCG has zero tolerance for any behavior that undermines public trust, tarnishes organizational integrity, or violates our ethical obligations. I have directed the CGS Manila to fully cooperate with the ongoing criminal investigation,” Gavan said.
“Should the suspect be found guilty of violating Republic Act No. 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, in relation to Section 6 of Republic Act No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act, he shall be dishonorably discharged from the Coast Guard service.”
Gavan urged PCG personnel to uphold the highest standards of discipline and professionalism and remain true to their duty of protecting the honor and reputation of the Philippine Coast Guard in service to the Filipino people.
“I call on all coast guardians to uphold the highest standards of discipline and professionalism, and to remain steadfast in protecting the honor and reputation of the PCG in service to the Filipino people,” the PCG chief emphasized.
