Central Luzon: The Police Regional Office (PRO) 3 announced the confiscation of 46 firearms and the arrest of 36 individuals as part of its intensified campaign against loose firearms. This effort is aimed at ensuring safe and orderly elections scheduled for May 12 across Central Luzon.

According to Philippines News Agency, PRO3 chief Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo stated that the police executed 39 search warrants and conducted 23 operations targeting illegal possession of firearms. Fajardo emphasized the importance of decisive action to maintain community safety ahead of the May 2025 elections. She highlighted that enforcing firearms regulations is crucial to preventing lawless activities and stressed the need for public cooperation to secure a peaceful election.

Fajardo reported a significant development involving the Guinto group, an active private armed group in Nueva Ecija, which surrendered eight unlicensed firearms on February 7. She noted that the directive from the PNP chief aims to dismantle active and potential private armed groups (PAGs) before the elections begin in May.

In her statement, Fajardo, who also serves as the spokesperson for the Philippine National Police (PNP), mentioned that collaboration with the Commission on Elections and other law enforcement agencies has been instrumental in neutralizing potential threats to public safety. She urged the public to report any illegal activities involving firearms, emphasizing that vigilance and cooperation are essential to safeguarding communities and ensuring peaceful and fair elections.

The campaign period for national positions is set to commence on February 11, while the period for local posts will begin on March 28.