PNP intensifies ops against PAGs until March

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Rommel Marbil has ordered all police units to intensify operations against active and potential private armed groups (PAGs) until March, threatening relief for those who fail.

Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, PNP spokesperson, confirmed during a press briefing that three active PAGs are located in Central Luzon, Central Visayas, and Zamboanga Peninsula, while five potential PAGs are found in the Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Calabarzon, Eastern Visayas, and BARMM.

Fajardo warned that if these groups are not dismantled by March, they could be used to harass and intimidate rival candidates and voters during the May 2025 midterm elections.

Despite identifying these PAGs, no incidents of violence related to the polls have been reported since January 12.

PNP Chief Marbil previously ordered intensified efforts against PAGs and loose firearms ahead of the elections.