Remulla orders crackdown on C. Luzon private armies

MANILA – Interior Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla ordered the Police Regional Office-Central Luzon (PRO-3) to intensify its crackdown on private armed groups (PAGs) before the 2025 midterm election activities go full swing.

"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 said in a press statement on Saturday.

Remulla made a command visit to the PRO-3 headquarters at Camp Olivas in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, where he instructed officials to disband PAGS being utilized by politicians during elections.

"We must ensure that our communities remain safe and secure, free from the influence of these lawless elements," he said.

He said the police must ensure the safety of candidates while adhering to the long-standing policy of remaining apolitical.

"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.

Remulla expects PRO3 to dismantle all PAGS by March.

"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," PRO-3 Director Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan said in another statement. (PNA)