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PNP Chief Orders Eradication of PAGs by March

Manila: Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has directed all police offices and units across the nation to ramp up efforts against active and potential private armed groups (PAGs) during the election season. In a press conference at Camp Crame, PNP spokesperson and concurrent Police Regional Office 3 Director Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo announced that Marbil has set a March deadline for concerned police officials to dismantle PAGs or face removal from their posts.

According to Philippines News Agency, Fajardo conveyed Marbil’s ultimatum to disband three identified active PAGs and five potential PAGs by March. The active groups are located in Central Luzon, Central Visayas, and the Zamboanga Peninsula, while the potential groups are in the Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Calabarzon, Eastern Visayas, and the Bangsamoro Administration Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Fajardo emphasized that these PAGs have already been identified, leaving no excuse for field commanders, particularly in the concerned regions and provinces, not to address them. When asked about the consequences for officers who fail to eradicate PAGs in their jurisdictions, Fajardo stated that such failure could lead to their relief from duty, as instructed by the PNP chief.

She highlighted the potential risks if PAGs are not dismantled, noting the possibility of them being used to harass and intimidate political rivals and voters. This directive follows Marbil’s previous order for the national police to intensify efforts against PAGs and loose firearms amidst the election period.

The PNP is operating Comelec checkpoints to enforce a gun ban as per Comelec Resolution 10999, which is in effect from January 12 to June 11. The campaign period for senators and party-list representatives is set from February 11 to May 10, while local candidates can campaign from March 28 to May 10.