Ang Pahayagan

PAMPANGA – Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) reported major gains in crime reduction, anti-illegal drugs operations, and public safety initiatives as it marked the first 100 days of Police Brigadier General Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr. as Regional Director.

From June 19 to September 27, PRO3 logged 4,426 index crime cases, down from 4,474 during the same period last year. Focus crimes likewise fell from 1,021 to 921, underscoring strengthened efforts to curb criminality across Central Luzon.

Authorities also arrested 1,596 wanted persons, including 370 tagged as Most Wanted. Among these accomplishments was the capture of the region’s Top 10 Most Wanted Persons within a single week this September, a feat that delivered a clear warning to fugitives that “justice will always catch up.”

The campaign against loose firearms yielded the confiscation of 635 assorted illegal weapons and the arrest of 330 violators. PRO3 also ensured peace and order during the 53rd Martial Law Anniversary demonstrations on September 21. While some personnel sustained injuries during deployment in Mendiola, Manila, no casualties were reported—highlighting the police’s adherence to maximum tolerance and respect for human rights.

In its anti-drug operations, PRO3 seized an estimated PHP906.5 million worth of illegal drugs in its first 100 days. The haul included 132,058 grams of shabu worth PHP898 million, 34.3 kilograms of marijuana valued at PHP2.7 million, and other substances such as cocaine, ecstasy, and kush worth over PHP3 million.

“These first 100 days stand as proof of what unity, discipline, and dedication can achieve,” Police Brig. General Peñones Jr. said. “Guided by the Acting Chief, PNP, Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., we reaffirm our commitment to protect the people, pursue peace and order, and promote professionalism within the ranks. This is only the beginning—our fight against crime and our mission to serve with excellence will continue stronger than ever.” (Jason de Asis)