Cops continues ‘Oplan Katok’ ops

The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced on Sunday that it will continue its "Oplan Katok" operations, now renamed the "Revitalized Katok" initiative, to promote responsible firearm ownership and address the proliferation of illegal firearms in the country.

PNP Chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil assured the public that the operation would be free from harassment and politically motivated actions, stressing that the program is solely focused on enforcing legal compliance among firearm holders.

The Revitalized Katok program is part of the PNP’s ongoing efforts to implement Republic Act 10591, the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, which mandates the periodic renewal of firearm licenses.

Marbil clarified that this initiative is not tied to any political agenda, rejecting claims that it could be used for political intimidation. “Revitalized Katok is a year-round initiative to ensure firearm holders comply with the law. It is not, and will never be, used for political purposes,” he stated.

Marbil addressed concerns regarding the misuse of the program during election periods, calling such claims “unfounded and speculative.”

He emphasized that the PNP has been implementing the Revitalized Katok for years, long before any elections, and that the operation targets only those with expired firearm licenses.

“There is no factual basis to claim that this program is meant to instill fear. Our reminders are purely legal and procedural, targeting only those with expired firearm licenses. Nothing more, nothing less,” he said.

Under Republic Act 10591, firearm owners are required to renew their License to Own and Possess Firearms and firearm registration every 5 to 10 years, depending on their chosen option. Marbil underscored that non-compliance could result in revocation of firearm ownership privileges and the possible confiscation of firearms.

The Revitalized Katok program includes police officers delivering formal notices and conducting house visits to remind gun owners to renew their licenses or deposit their firearms. Marbil stated that the PNP is the principal regulatory body overseeing firearm ownership in the country.

“This program ensures that legitimate firearms do not fall into the wrong hands and that we account for all registered firearms,” he explained.

The initiative aims to keep communities safe by preventing unregistered firearms from being used in criminal activities. Marbil highlighted that the program has already proven effective in reducing the number of unregistered firearms circulating, thereby lowering the potential for gun-related violence.

In response to concerns raised by Comelec chairman George Erwin Garcia, who urged the PNP to implement Oplan Katok but also expressed fears of it being used to intimidate voters or candidates during the election period, Marbil clarified that the program is part of the PNP’s regular functions and does not serve any political purpose.

“We are merely upholding the law. Those who claim otherwise rely on speculation, not evidence. Our priority is to ensure that firearms remain in the hands of responsible, law-abiding citizens and do not pose a threat to public safety, especially during elections,” he said.