SAN ANTONIO, Nueva Ecija — With the 2025 midterm elections fast approaching, a private armed group surrendered unlicensed firearms to the Nueva Ecija Police Provincial Office recently in Barangay Papaya here.
The Nueva Ecija Police Provincial Office (NEPPO) under Col. Ferdinand Germino, provincial director said they successfully facilitated the voluntary surrender of several unlicensed firearms from alleged members of a private armed group. This operation is a decisive step in neutralizing potential threats that could undermine peace and stability in the region.
“The successful turnover was made possible through the effective implementation of the “Balik Baril” program and the strong collaboration between NEPPO, local government units, and other law enforcement agencies,” Germino said.
Among the surrendered weapons were a silver caliber .45 pistol, four additional silver caliber .45 pistols, a black Colt .380 pistol, a black M16 rifle, a 12-gauge shotgun, several magazines, and numerous rounds of ammunition.
Brig. Gen. Jean S. Fajardo, Regional Director of PRO3, emphasized the importance of this development in the broader effort to prevent election-related violence.
She commended the Nueva Ecija Police Provincial Office for their proactive approach, recognizing their dedication to keeping communities safe and ensuring that no armed group can threaten the democratic process.
“This is a decisive step toward a safer and more secure election. The voluntary surrender of these firearms proves that our relentless campaign against loose firearms is working. We will not allow private armed groups or illegal weapons to threaten the peace and stability of Central Luzon. I commend the Nueva Ecija Police Provincial Office for their dedication and urge those still holding unlicensed firearms to surrender them now. PRO3 remains firm in its mission—no place for violence, no room for lawlessness. We are taking action, and we will not stop,” Fajardo added.
As the election season draws closer, PRO3 remains firm in its commitment to eliminating illegal firearms and disbanding groups that pose a risk to security. The PNP urges individuals still in possession of unlicensed weapons to surrender them immediately, underscoring its unwavering resolve to safeguard communities and uphold the rule of law in Central Luzon. (UnliNews Online)
