The Philippine National Police (PNP) has directed all units nationwide to intensify efforts against private armed groups (PAGs) and reduce the proliferation of loose firearms as the election campaign approaches.

In a statement on Thursday, PNP Chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil said the directive aims to “bolster public safety and mitigate potential violence, thereby promoting a peaceful democratic process.”

“Our intensified campaign against private armed groups and loose firearms underscores our commitment to providing a safe environment for every Filipino, especially as we approach the election period,” he said.

“The PNP is resolute in its mission to dismantle these groups and eliminate threats to peace,” he added.

Citing reports from 1 January to 30 November 2024, Marbil touted the PNP’s achievements, including the arrest of 8,628 individuals for violations of Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.

During the same period, 25,240 firearms were either confiscated, recovered, or surrendered, with an additional 9,932 firearms turned over for safekeeping.

The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) recorded the highest number of arrests for firearms law violations, with 2,033, followed by Police Regional Office 3 (PRO 3), with 979, and Police Regional Office 7 (PRO 7), with 906.

For confiscated or surrendered firearms, PRO 7 logged 3,951 cases, followed by PRO 6 with 3,023, and NCRPO with 2,175. Meanwhile, PRO 4-A reported the highest number of firearms turned over for safekeeping at 2,797.

The campaign against PAGs has also made significant progress. The number of active PAGs decreased from six in 2023 to three this year following the disbandment of the Kunti Melo Group in Bukidnon and the Bal and Mayo Groups in Nueva Ecija.

According to Marbil, potential PAGs have dropped, from 28 to five, due to ongoing operations that have led to the delisting of 33 groups following arrests and surrenders.

“By aggressively targeting private armed groups and the illegal firearms they use, we are dismantling their capacity for violence and intimidation,” he said. 

Marbil then urged the public to support the PNP's initiatives and maintain “vigilance during this crucial period, reaffirming the organization’s dedication to strategic actions that uphold peace and order leading up to the elections.”