CITY OF SAN FERNANDO: Interior Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla has directed the Police Regional Office-Central Luzon (PRO-3) to intensify efforts against private armed groups (PAGs) as preparations for the 2025 midterm elections begin. This initiative aims to dismantle groups that threaten regional peace and stability.
According to Philippines News Agency, Remulla emphasized the need for a relentless fight against PAGs during his visit to the PRO-3 headquarters at Camp Olivas. He instructed officials to dismantle any armed groups being used by politicians for electoral purposes. “Our fight against private armed groups must be relentless. I urge the Police Regional Office-3 to double their efforts to dismantle these groups that undermine peace and stability in our region,” Remulla stated in a press release.
Remulla stressed the importance of maintaining community safety and security, free from the influence of lawless elements. He also highlighted the necessity for police to safeguard candidates while uphol
ding a policy of political neutrality. “No. 1 safety ng lahat ng kandidato at lahat ng tao for 2025. Ang instructions ko ay impartial, walang kakampihan ang police force sa darating na halalan (No. 1, safety of all candidates and the people in 2025. My instructions is to remain impartial. The police force should not take sides during the elections),” he said.
The Interior Secretary has set a target for PRO-3 to dismantle all PAGs by March. In response, PRO-3 Director Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan affirmed the office’s commitment to dismantling these groups and maintaining peace in Central Luzon. “We stand ready to fulfill our mission of dismantling private armed groups and maintaining the peace in Central Luzon. The support and guidance from our leaders strengthen our resolve to serve and protect the people,” Maranan said in another statement.