The Philippine National Police (PNP) identified three active private armed groups (PAGs) ahead of this year's midterm senatorial and local elections.
According to PBGen. Jean Fajardo, spokesperson for the PNP, the armed groups have been located in Central Luzon, one in the Visayas, and one in Mindanao.
In a report by RH Edniel Parrosa, it was revealed that, in addition to the active PAGs, five potential groups are also being monitored in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
Fajardo further explained that these private armed groups are under close surveillance due to concerns that they could be used for harassment or intimidation of politicians.
PNP Chief PGen. Rommel Francisco Marbil had earlier ordered an intensified campaign against private armed groups and the illegal use of firearms as the elections draw near.
Meanwhile, the list of potential areas of concern is being carefully examined by the security sector before the Comelec en banc makes an official announcement in the coming days.
