CRACKDOWN ON LOOSE GUNS CUTS CRIME BY 2.87% IN CENTRAL LUZON

BY KEVIN GALANG

CAMP OLIVAS, City of San Fernando, Pampanga  — Crime incidents in Central Luzon dropped by 2.87% due to the Police Regional Office 3’s intensified crackdown on loose firearms, reinforcing security measures ahead of the 2025 midterm elections.

Records showed that from January 12 to March 23,  PRO3’s Revitalized “Katok” Campaign led to the surrender or deposit of 1,377 firearms with expired licenses and the confiscation of 384 firearms through checkpoints and targeted law enforcement operations.

The efforts also resulted in the arrest of 350 individuals for illegal possession of firearms, significantly improving the region’s peace and order situation.

The region’s total crime incidents dropped from 7,360 cases in 2024 to 7,149 cases this year, while the eight focus crimes, including murder, homicide, rape, robbery, theft, physical injury, and vehicle carnapping, saw a 10.66% decline, with cases reduced from 638 to 570.

PRO3 director Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo commended the dedication of Central Luzon’s law enforcement personnel, emphasizing that removing loose firearms from the streets is a crucial step in maintaining public safety, especially as the elections approach.

“This achievement highlights our commitment to curbing criminality and protecting our communities. By significantly reducing the presence of loose firearms, we have minimized the risk of violence and bolstered security in Central Luzon,” Fajardo said.

The Central Luzon top cop reaffirmed PRO3’s dedication to sustaining the momentum in its campaign against illegal firearms, reiterating its importance in ensuring an orderly and peaceful electoral process.