In a strategic move to streamline operations and intensify efforts against private armed groups (PAGs), the Philippine National Police (PNP) has officially disbanded five area police commands (APCs), converting them into a unified task force.

PNP acting chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. announced the restructuring during a press briefing at Camp Crame on Monday, citing redundancy in the functions of the APCs with other police units.

“Their job is to address the PAGs. We will synergize the efforts of the regional office, provincial office, and tactical elements,” Nartatez said, referring to the newly formed Task Force for the Disbandment of PAGs (TF DPAG).

The task force will operate under the supervision of Lt. Gen. Edgar Alan Okubo, the PNP’s deputy chief for operations. Nartatez emphasized the urgency of accounting for loose firearms, which he described as the “primary tool being used by these PAGs” to perpetuate violence.

The APCs—previously known as the Directorate for Integrated Police Operations (DIPO)—were modeled after the major area commands of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). As of October 1, the commands for **Northern Luzon, Southern Luzon, Visayas, Eastern Visayas, and Western Mindanao** have been officially dissolved.

According to Nartatez, the reorganization aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to eliminate overlapping functions within the PNP and enhance operational efficiency.

“This is the effect,” Nartatez said, referring to the President’s push to streamline units and eliminate duplication. (PNA)