The Central Luzon Police Regional Office is urging the public to cooperate with checkpoint operations as part of efforts to curb illegal firearms and prevent election-related violence ahead of the 2025 national and local elections.

Police Major Aileen Rose Stanger, Chief of the Regional Public Information Office, emphasized that checkpoints are crucial for monitoring potential threats, intercepting illegal firearms, and preventing criminal activities that could disrupt the electoral process.

“We ask for the patience and cooperation of the public, particularly motorists. These checkpoints are set up to ensure the safety of our communities and to help prevent election-related violence,” Stanger said.

From January 12 to March 4, 2025, police operations in Central Luzon led to the seizure of 205 firearms, four explosives, and 718 rounds of ammunition. Among the confiscated firearms were 107 .38 revolvers, 22 .45 caliber guns, 22 9mm guns, two rifles, one shotgun, one .40 caliber gun, and 50 other types of firearms.

In addition, authorities arrested one uniformed personnel, seven security guards, and 202 civilians who were unable to present the necessary licenses at the checkpoints.

As part of its security measures, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has identified 14 areas in Central Luzon as election areas of concern. These include eight in Nueva Ecija, two each in Pampanga and Bulacan, and one each in Aurora and Bataan. These areas, which are either characterized by intense political rivalry or the presence of private armed groups, are under heightened surveillance. (PIA Region 3-Pampanga)