(Photo courtesy of MDS PPO)
COTABATO CITY – The Maguindanao del Sur Police Provincial Office (MDS PPO) participated in a lessons learned session aimed at evaluating security operations and strengthening coordination among government agencies during the first Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliamentary Elections.
The activity was held on October 26, 2026, at Pagana Kutawato in Cotabato City, bringing together representatives from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), and other key stakeholders.
MDS PPO Provincial Director PCOL Michael John Mangahis led the provincial police delegation during the session organized by the Government of the Philippines–Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (GPH-CCCH), chaired by Major General Patricio Ruben Amata.
The discussions focused on assessing security preparations and operations conducted before, during, and after the 2026 BARMM Parliamentary Elections.
Participants reviewed effective security practices, operational challenges, and areas requiring improvement to enhance future election-related security measures.
The session also highlighted the importance of stronger inter-agency coordination, timely information-sharing, and conflict prevention strategies to maintain peace and order during electoral activities.
Authorities emphasized that cooperation among security forces, government agencies, and local stakeholders remains essential in addressing potential threats and ensuring the safety of voters and election personnel.
Through its participation, the MDS PPO reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining public safety, strengthening partnerships, and supporting peaceful and orderly electoral processes throughout the Bangsamoro region.
The activity also provided an opportunity for participating agencies to identify lessons that could guide future security planning and improve coordination during major democratic exercises.
