SAN ANTONIO, Nueva Ecija — A Private Armed Group (PAG), known as the Golden Boy Group, has voluntarily surrendered its firearms to the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Army (PA) at the San Antonio Municipal Police Station, Barangay Poblacion of this town last Friday.

According to Col. Eugenio Julio C. Osias IV, commander of the 703rd Agila Brigade of the 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division of the PA, this collaborative effort between the PNP and the PA shows a significant step towards a peaceful and orderly elections.

The event was attended by Atty. Arnold P. Castro, municipal administrator, and high-ranking officials from the Philippine Army and the PNP, including PCol. Ferdinand D. Germino, Provincial Director, NEPPO; PCol. Marlon B. Canam, Chief, RPSPU 3; PCol. Reynaldo S. Ogay Sr., Deputy Regional Director for Operations, PRO3; Col. Jerald R. Reyes, INF (GSG) PA, commanding officer of the 84IB.

The surrender was made possible through the intensified efforts of the PNP and the Philippine Army, who worked closely with local government officials and community leaders to encourage a peaceful resolution.

A total of nine firearms including three high-powered firearms and six low-powered firearms, were turned over to authorities, along with 10 assorted magazines and 110 assorted rounds of ammunition.

The PNP and the Philippine Army reaffirm their commitment to upholding law and order and urge other individuals and groups in possession of illegal firearms to cooperate with authorities. The successful disarmament of private armed groups is a crucial step toward achieving a peaceful election period and ensuring long-term security in the region.

“The voluntary surrender of firearms by the Golden Boy Private Armed Group is crucial to lasting peace and security in our region. This achievement is a testament to the effectiveness of our joint efforts with the Philippine National Police and the local government units,” Col. Osias said.