MANILA – The Police Regional Office (PRO) 3 (Central Luzon) on Monday said it has seized 37 loose firearms in five-day operations to ensure the safety of the public against the unauthorized use of firearms.
In a statement, PRO 3 chief Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan said police units across the region were mobilized for simultaneous operations from Oct. 1 to 5 to curb illegal firearms ahead of the May 2025 midterm elections.
These operations led to the arrest of a farmer who was found in possession of an unlicensed cal. 45 pistol with a magazine containing four live rounds of ammunition while trying to flee during a joint anti-criminality checkpoint in Barangay Pambuan, Gapan City, Nueva Ecija.
“This operation demonstrates our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our communities. Through the 'Makabagong Pulis sa Makabagong Panahon' initiative, we will remain proactive in addressing public safety concerns, especially as the election season approaches," Maranan said.
The Central Luzon police chief underscored the importance of public cooperation, urging residents to report any illegal firearms in their areas to the authorities.
"Our continued success in confiscating loose firearms is a testament to our dedication to public safety. We will not rest until the threat posed by illegal firearms is completely eliminated,” he said.
In a press briefing in Camp Crame Monday, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said the measure is part of efforts to eliminate criminal activities and private armed groups ahead of next year's midterm elections.
Fajardo said the PNP has also intensified border control measures such as random checkpoints in response to cases of killings of government officials.
“So far, our filing of candidacy is peaceful but we are keeping watch on the following days. The Chief PNP (Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil) is considering early deployment of special forces like the SAF (Special Action Force) in some particular areas, like those that have intense political rivalries. They might think twice if they see the presence of PNP special units," she added. (PNA)
