2 arrested, firearms seized in Pampanga ahead of 2025 polls

Authorities arrested two men and seized several firearms in Arayat, Pampanga under the election gun ban for the 2025 polls.

In a social media post, the Police Regional Office III said authorities served two separate search warrants in Barangay San Mateo on Wednesday, which led to the arrest of the suspects.

Authorities arrested 56-year-old alias “Baby Ambo” and confiscated various firearms and ammunition.

These include one 5.56mm M16 Colt rifle, four short magazines, two long magazines, two magazines for a .45 pistol, a rifle grenade, 236 rounds of 5.56mm live ammunition, and other related items.

In a separate operation, authorities seized a Remington Rand .45 caliber pistol, three M16 rifle magazines with live ammunition, a disassembled M16 rifle upper and lower receiver, and another rifle grenade.

The search also led to the arrest of 72-year-old alias “Amang.”

The suspects were brought to the Arayat Municipal Police Station for processing.

Meanwhile, the confiscated firearms and ammunition were sent to the Pampanga Provincial Intelligence Unit.

“As we approach the May 2025 NLE, ensuring that all firearms are properly registered and accounted for remains a top priority for PRO3. These recent operations in Arayat are part of our ongoing efforts to eliminate illegal firearms and ensure public safety,” PRO III director Brigadier General Jean Fajardo said.

Earlier this month, the Philippine National Police reported that 2,198 firearms have been seized since the gun ban took effect on January 12.

The nationwide gun ban will be in effect until June 11, 2025.

Election day will be on May 12, 2025. —Mariel Celine Serquiña/LDF, GMA Integrated News